Grosvenor Gardens, a prominent public square near London's Victoria Station and luxury accommodations, has become a makeshift shelter for numerous rough sleepers, according to local reports. The situation has led to complaints from businesses and tourists who describe encountering aggressive behavior and disruptions.
Eyewitness accounts from local shopkeepers and hotel staff describe dozens of individuals sleeping in tents, on grass, and even on public furniture. Some reports indicate the presence of alcohol and marijuana use in the area, contributing to an unpleasant atmosphere for office workers and tourists.
Local businesses have reported significant financial impacts. Bally Singh, owner of the off-licence Charles of Belgravia, stated that homeless individuals had stolen over £1,000 worth of alcohol and cigarettes in a break-in, causing him to replace his shop's front door and shutter lock. He estimates losing £30 to £40 weekly due to theft. Another shopkeeper mentioned a homeless person repeatedly stealing ice cream, while a baker reported frequent food thefts. A barista recounted being punched by a homeless individual attempting to steal food, and stated that police response times were slow as the incident was not considered a knife-related emergency.
Hotel staff have also expressed difficulties, with guests reportedly being bothered and restrooms being misused. One receptionist noted that a room could not be rented for a week after a homeless individual urinated inside and stole linens, incurring costs for deep cleaning. Some staff members have reported feeling scared due to the aggressive nature of some individuals.
Westminster City Council's Deputy Leader, Cllr Caroline Sargent, acknowledged the frustration of local residents and businesses, calling the situation "totally unacceptable in the heart of a capital city." She stated that the council invests £8 million annually in support services, including hostels and addiction treatment. However, she noted that some locations attract individuals involved in anti-social and criminal behavior, emphasizing that rough sleeping and anti-social behavior require distinct responses. Sargent also called for broader support from immigration services, the police, businesses, and the Home Office to address the issue comprehensively.
The Metropolitan Police stated they have implemented new technology to combat retail crime, which has reportedly quadrupled the number of shoplifters brought to justice. This system allows retailers to submit evidence directly to officers, enabling faster tracking, arrest, and prosecution of offenders. Chief Inspector Rav Pathania highlighted the effectiveness of this technology in building stronger cases and acting more decisively against shoplifters.