Update on Problem Solving Partnership to tackle antisocial behaviour in Musselburgh

A Problem Solving Partnership (PSP) was established in November 2020 to address concerns around the levels of antisocial behaviour, fly-tipping and the littering and misuse of communal areas in the areas known as ‘the Wimpeys’ in Musselburgh.  

The PSP brings together representatives from Police Scotland, East Lothian Council, East Lothian Tenants and Residents Panel and local Musselburgh Councillors and has met three times since its inception.

Measures taken to date include; a council funded ‘day of action’ in December 2020 that allowed residents to dispose of any unwanted items free of charge, the removal of dumped items from communal gardens and stairs, the identification and undertaking of communal repairs and the carrying out of daily inspections of the area by local community wardens.  

Future plans include the organisation of ‘a day of community action’ in the summer of 2021 that will focus on littering and the removal of unwanted items from communal areas.

Kenneth Black, East Lothian Council’s Safer Communities Team Manager, and Chair of the PSP said: “Antisocial Behaviour, in whatever form, will not be tolerated within the area and the council will use all its available powers to address same. It is hoped that this joined up approach represented by the work of the PSP will deliver long-term solutions to the problems that are being reported.

Mandy Rudden, the Area’s Community Housing Manager, said: “Community Housing staff will continue to engage with local residents and partner agencies to address the issues raised at the PSP.  The Day of Action was a great success and allowed many unwanted or dumped items to be uplifted from common areas and for residents to put items on the kerbside for collection.  We are looking to consult with residents again over the next few months with a view of establishing a Tenant and Residents Association in the area to allow to enable us to work together to identify areas of concern and work with partner agencies to improve the quality of life for residents in the Wimpeys.”  

Antisocial Behaviour can be reported to East Lothian Council via the Antisocial Behaviour Helpline on 01875 824 307, by e-mailing asb@eastlothian.gov.uk or on-line at www.eastlothian.gov.uk. All calls are treated with the strictest confidence.  

Published: Tuesday, 30th March 2021