Following the violent incident earlier this week, I want to extend my condolences, and those of everyone at Newham Council, to the family and friends of the man who lost his life. I know this incident has caused concern in our community.

We take all violence seriously and are working closely with the Metropolitan Police, who have launched a murder investigation. If you have any information that could help, please contact the police. 

You’ve told us that you want us to make sure keeping Newham safe is one of our top priorities. That's why we've agreed funding for eight new Neighbourhood Enforcement Officers, who will provide visible support in our communities and help tackle the issues that matter most to residents. 

Across the borough, we've been taking action with our partners to reduce crime, tackle anti-social behaviour, address environmental offences and crack down on illegal trading. Recent activity has included a multi-agency Day of Action in Manor Park, targeted enforcement in Canning Town, joint patrols to address anti-social behaviour, and ongoing work with businesses in Stratford to prevent crime and improve safety. 

Our enforcement teams have also removed more than 40,000 illegal cigarettes and other illicit products from local streets, helping to protect residents, businesses and our local economy. You can read more about this work below. 

And if you missed it, you can also watch Deputy Mayor Cllr John Gray joining officers on a visit to tackle anti-social behaviour in Wanstead, responding directly to concerns raised by local residents. We will continue working every day to make Newham's streets safer, cleaner and more welcoming for everyone.

Forhad 

Mayor Forhad Hussain

Keeping Green Street safe for independence celebrations

Community Safety Enforcement Officers and CCTV worked alongside the Metropolitan Police and other partners on Green Street over the Pakistan and India Independence Day celebrations on 14th and 15th August.

Community Safety Enforcement Officers provided a visible presence throughout the celebrations, supporting the wider multi-agency operation and engaging with residents, businesses and visitors.

Close CCTV monitoring was also undertaken though the period. The coordinated approach helped ensure that people could come together and celebrate safely while minimising disruption to the local community.

Fade to black (market) when Metallica came to town

Newham Safety Partnership officers were at the London Stadium for the return of heavy metal icons Metallica last month. They worked alongside the Met Police, Carpinvest Group SRL and The Copyright and Trademark Company to crackdown on bogus goods and merchandise. 

They seized more than £7,600 worth of counterfeit goods. 

Every counterfeit item removed from circulation helps protect consumers, supports legitimate businesses, safeguards intellectual property rights and disrupts those seeking to profit from illegal trade.

Trading Standards team's huge illicit cigarette haul

Newham Trading Standards Officers recently joined forces with specialist dog teams to target shops selling illicit and duty-evaded tobacco. Over two days this month, officers visited 17 premises and took enforcement action at 10 locations.

During the operation, officers seized:  

• 40,780 illicit cigarettes
• 10.25kg hand-rolling tobacco
• 24kg illicit shisha tobacco
• 280 non-compliant vapes
• 18 unlabelled e-liquids

Officers also completed test purchase operations for electronic vapes, with one underage sale resulting in a further 1,420 illicit cigarettes and 500g of hand-rolling tobacco seized from one premise.

Newham Safety Centre pitches up at Westfield

Newham Council set up a Safety Centre at Westfield Shopping Centre last week to speak to local people about crime, enforcement and fire safety.

Alongside the Met Police, London Fire Brigade, and the voluntary and community sector, the council’s specialist officers set up information stalls, seminars, practical exercises around safety, children’s activities and fire safety advice.

Working with local businesses to reduce crime

The Safer Business Network (SBN) has been doing weekly business engagement visits across Stratford, maintaining close contact with businesses, retailers and security teams to share intelligence, provide support and address concerns. 

This proactive partnership approach focuses on targeting prolific offenders, reducing crime and improving confidence through collaboration with the community.

Recent positive outcomes include a CBO secured against a prolific offender who had caused significant disruption in Stratford over the past year. 

Day of action in Manor Park to tackle crime

The Met Police, Newham's Anti-Social Behaviour Team, along with housing and cleansing teams carried out a joint patrol at Willis House, Manor Park, to review ongoing anti-social behaviour issues and discuss long-term plans. 

The visit demonstrated strong partnership working and a shared commitment to improving safety and quality of life for local residents.

Kittens rehomed after tip off from the public

Newham’s Animal Welfare team was tipped off that young kittens were being handed out to passers by and people in restaurants in Wood Grange Road, in Forest Gate.

Officers seized two remaining kittens who were handed over by the owners. Both have now been rehomed. The owner was issued with a warning.

Free Bulky Waste Collections launching soon

Got a sofa that’s overstayed its welcome or a wardrobe that’s seen better days?From September, Newham residents can book up to three FREE bulky waste collections each year, helping you get rid of large unwanted items safely and responsibly.

Whether you’re clearing out an old sofa, wardrobe, TV or other bulky household items, make sure you use our collection service and help keep our streets clean.

Find out more about our bulky waste collection service > 

A brand new space for urban sports

Our newly refurbished urban sports area is now open at King George V Park in Beckton.

This August we are offering Newham’s children and young people the chance to try out a range of activities, including scootering, roller skating and skateboarding in partnership with contractor Betongpark. 

The refurbished area is all part of our commitment to ensuring children and young people in Newham have access to spaces that will help them thrive and learn new skills. 

See this video to take a look at the space and those who use it in action! >

Check out the list of summer activities >

Are you a Council Tenant or Leaseholder?

Come along to our Estate Action Day at Drew and Camel Road on Tuesday 25 August, from 11am to 2pm. 

You'll be able to speak directly with your Housing teams, report repairs for your home or communal areas, get support with any issues on your estate, and ask questions about the services you receive. 

Drew and Camel Road, Contance Street and Parker Close E16. With the meeting point at the Camel Road Play Area.

Find out about future Action Days here: Housing Estate Action Days – Newham Council

Email GetInvolved.Housing@Newham.gov.uk

British Cycling Talent ID Open Test Day

The Talent ID sessions are aimed at young riders aged 12-16 who are new to cycling and are not currently part of the British Cycling talent pathway. 

During the day, riders will take part in a range of cycling-based challenges on stationary trainers, along with off-bike activities.

The sessions provide an introduction to track cycling and help identify riders who may have the potential to progress through the British Cycling talent system.

The session rakes place on Thursday 27 August at UEL SportsDock, London.

Sign up to take part and showcase your talent >