Rough sleepers have moved back into a key part of Trowbridge town centre after making nearby Roundstone Street a ‘no-go’ area for some shoppers.
They have been seen camping out in the doorways of the former Monsoon retail fashion store and the empty former Starbucks coffee shop nearby.
One person commented: "They look ready for a long stay, beds, suitcase, and various other items."
Inspector Andy Lemon, of Wiltshire Police, said: “This is not acceptable and won’t be tolerated. We will be increasing our patrols and moving these individuals on, using our powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act.”
Cllr Phil Alford, Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing said: “Our Rough Sleeper team are aware of the group of rough sleepers currently in Fore Street, Trowbridge.
“They are working closely with Wiltshire Police to both ensure the safety of the community but also to ensure the needs of rough sleepers are met and appropriate advice and support is provided.
“Our outreach officers are able to offer alternative temporary accommodation, but we cannot insist that offers are accepted.”
Police were asked last year to take action against a group of rough sleepers who were camped out in the doorway of the former Lounge public house in Roundstone Street.
One local businesswoman, beauty therapist Halina Jesionek, of Skin Aesthetic, said the antisocial behaviour of some of the rough sleepers was stopping some of her clients from visiting her salon.
She claimed they were drinking alcohol and using drugs in broad daylight, begging money from passers-by, and hurling abuse at some of those who were refusing to give them cash.
She said she had asked Wiltshire Police to take action, as the Lounge is only a stone’s throw from Trowbridge Police Station in Polebarn Road.
Now it appears the rough sleepers have set up camp again in the Monsoon and Starbuck doorways in Fore Street, one of Trowbridge’s key retail shopping areas.
Cllr Alford added: “If people see someone on the streets they can visit https://thestreetlink.org.uk, to connects rough sleepers with local services that can support them.
“Streetlink will then provide the council with their details, meaning officers can locate and talk to the rough sleeper to help them find a warm place to stay and offer ongoing support.”
Trowbridge Town Council has also been approached for a comment.
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