Neighbourhood policing teams across Hitchin and the surrounding villages are stepping up patrols and enforcement work after residents highlighted speeding, anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime as key concerns.

Officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary's Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) say they have spent recent months tackling issues raised by the public through surveys and local intelligence, while also setting new priorities for the next four months.

The teams work alongside partner agencies to deal with longer-term neighbourhood concerns including anti-social behaviour, theft, speeding and drug-related crime.

Hitchin Urban Priorities

In Hitchin town, officers have recently focused on checks involving large goods vehicles and waste carriers travelling to and from industrial estates. Police said multiple patrols and enforcement activities were carried out to ensure drivers were complying with legislation.

The force has also continued to crack down on the illegal use of e-scooters across Hitchin. Officers carried out a series of patrols and enforcement operations which resulted in several e-scooters being seized and riders dealt with where appropriate.

Police also monitored speeding on the London Road B656. Officers said only a small number of speeding drivers were identified during patrols, although advice was issued where needed.

For the next four months, police say speeding on Bedford Road (A600) will become a key focus area. The stretch between Redhill Road and Turnpike Lane has been highlighted by residents as a concern.

Illegal use of e-scooters and e-bikes will also remain a policing priority across Hitchin Urban.

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Hitchin Rural Priorities

In rural areas surrounding Hitchin, officers recently targeted drug-related anti-social behaviour in Wymondley, particularly around the Tower Close car park. Police said increased patrols had helped reduce reports of problems in the area.

Fly-tipping around Offley and Lilley has also been a major focus. Hertfordshire officers have been working alongside Bedfordshire Police to tackle offending along the county border.

Looking ahead, rural officers say acquisitive vehicle crime – including theft from vehicles and vehicle theft – will be a major priority over the coming months.

Police said they plan to work with residents and businesses to improve crime prevention awareness while increasing patrols in isolated rural areas.

Fly-tipping along the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire border will also remain a key area of focus, with further joint operations planned.