Wandsworth Council plans new police officers in major boost to neighbourhood policing

The council is proposing to fund additional police officers in the borough as part of a major investment in community safety, responding directly to the issues residents raise most often about crime, anti-social behaviour and feeling safe in their neighbourhoods.

The new Leader of Wandsworth Council, Councillor Robert Morritt, has set out plans to use funding released through a review of existing Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy schemes to support additional police capacity in the current financial year.

If confirmed, the investment would provide a significant uplift in visible neighbourhood policing across Wandsworth, supporting action on the issues residents raise most often, including anti-social behaviour, town centre safety, local hotspots and reassurance patrols in communities across the borough.

Councillor Robert Morritt, Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: "Wandsworth is a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family, and I am determined to keep it that way. Residents have told us clearly that they want to see more visible policing in their neighbourhoods, town centres and public spaces.

"That is why we are planning to fund additional police officers. This is about listening to residents, prioritising what matters to them and taking practical action.

"Our ambition is clear: more officers, more visible patrols and stronger reassurance for communities. We want to keep Wandsworth safe and one of the best places in London to call home."

The council plans to work with the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime and the Metropolitan Police Service to agree the arrangements needed to deliver the additional officers and ensure they are deployed where they can make the greatest difference for residents.

The proposal forms part of the council's wider commitment to strengthen neighbourhoods, improve quality of life and ensure local communities see tangible benefits from investment across the borough.

Funding for the proposal would come from Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funding released through a review of existing schemes, subject to the necessary approvals and agreements.