Crime and disorder

Wye with Hinxhill Parish Council has a duty to consider the impact of its functions and decisions on crime and disorder within the parish, under Section 17 of the Crime and Disorder Act (1998).

Consequently, this duty is integrated across the Parish Council's budget allocations, and it applies to all areas of involvement. For example, how the Council comments on proposed designs in planning applications, and the daily management of the children's play area.

The Parish Council has discretionary power to spend money on crime prevention measures under Section 3 of the Local Government and Rating Act (1997). The installation of a high quality CCTV system in 2021 is an example of this in practice.

The Parish Council also has the power to light roads and public places under Section 3 of the Parish Councils Act (1957), section 3 and under Section 301 of the Highways Act (1980). For example in 2021 the LED lighting upgrade around the children's play area has improved security and safety.

At the practical day-to day level the Parish Council monitors crime reports and trends, and works closely with the Wye Community Warden and Kent Police to reduce crime, antisocial behaviour and disorder. The Parish Council also supports initiatives to protect residents from the fear and impact of crime.

Kent Police has a standing invitation to attend and provide a report to every meeting of the Parish Council. The Parish Council also has direct access to the Area Commander at bi-monthly meetings held online, or in Ashford.