A CRACKDOWN on persistent anti-social behaviour has resulted in dozens of people being hit with enforcement action.

Colchester Council launched the Town Centre Action Plan (TCAP) in August which involved weekly meetings with Essex Police and Colchester Borough Homes to discuss people or groups consistently involved in crime or nuisance activity.

The groups track and share potentially harmful behaviour and either take action or where it is not appropriate signpost help towards groups like homelessness organisations and other outreach workers.

Public safety boss Mike Lilley (Lab) said: “We are committed to a Better Colchester and are working hard with partners to ensure Colchester remains a welcoming and safe town.

"This unique partnership work is invaluable, and I am pleased to see positive results already beginning to emerge from the great work the TCAP is achieving.”

Since August the partnership has committed to between 50 and 70 hours per week of patrols as well as an increased presence in hotspot areas like St Botolph's and town centre car parks.

So far, there have been four acceptable behaviour orders issued, 25 community protection warnings, six community protection notices and seven fixed penalty notices.

A new dedicated group called Team Ten has been set up for the town centre which includes special constables, police community support officers, a police constable and zone wardens.

Colchester's district commander Chief Insp Shaun Kane said the team were working to prevent aggressive begging.

He said: “We are working tirelessly with our partners to keep Colchester town centre safe.

"Our community safety family is working closely with the newly formed Team Ten, and extra officers continue to work during busy weekends throughout December to ensure people can enjoy a safe night out in Colchester.

“Concerns raised about rough sleepers and aggressive begging are also being addressed, with officers working closely with partners and support agencies to offer support to those who need it.”

Members of the public are encouraged to report crime using the email address ColchesterCPT@essex.pnn.police.uk.