Drug use and related crime in Ludlow needs tackling says councillors

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Wednesday, 6 December 2023 16:10

Concerns have been raised about the number of drug and related crime incidents in Ludlow recently.

Local businesses have reported an increase in shoplifting and burglaries.

Councillor Tracey Huffer told the Shropshire Star: “I’ve lived in Ludlow all my life. There has always been some drug use and trading, but it appears to be worse than ever.

“There are whole families, parents and children peddling and using drugs.

“Communities are talking about this. Councillors are talking about this. Children are talking about it. Health professionals are concerned that the problem is escalating out of control. The only people who seem not to be talking about it is the police.

“Some of the thefts are blatant. I witnessed a known thief running out of Boots holding a box of deodorant. That would have probably been sold for drug money. Thieves in supermarkets are not often challenged even when there are security staff.

“When there is a request for a police presence, officers are called out from Leominster or Bridgnorth. There are few police based in Ludlow’s police station.

“There is a significant danger of locking young people into a life of criminality. Of lives being wasted. Of families being wrecked.”

Meanwhile, West Mercia Police said there is no significant problem with drug use in Ludlow.

Patrols have been upped in the town centre as a response.