Homeless people placed at Fratton hotel accused of anti-social behaviour and flouting lockdown measures

HOMELESS people moved to a hotel so they are off the streets during the coronavirus lockdown have been accused of flouting the restrictions and ‘causing havoc’ in Fratton.
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Residents say rough sleepers are ‘running the streets’ whilst indulging in drunken behaviour and committing crimes during their temporary stay at the Ibis hotel in Fratton Way.

Police have been called out several times during the last two weeks as they seek to maintain control.

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Incidents have taken place in Fratton Way, Goldsmith Avenue and around Fratton Park.

Police at the IBIS hotel recentlyPolice at the IBIS hotel recently
Police at the IBIS hotel recently

One resident said: ‘A lot of homeless have been placed into the Ibis hotel to get them off the streets during the pandemic but it seems they still like to run the streets and cause havoc.

‘Police have been called to the hotel on many occasions during the last two weeks due to the drunken behaviour and crime from supposedly vulnerable people.

‘We are all in quarantine yet they are allowed to get away with it day after day. When will the police step up?’

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A Portsmouth City Council spokeswoman said the authority was ‘aware of some issues’ after housing homeless people in line with government instructions.

Police have been called out regularly to the hotel in FrattonPolice have been called out regularly to the hotel in Fratton
Police have been called out regularly to the hotel in Fratton

‘People who sleep rough are particularly vulnerable to this virus and supporting them is a top priority,’ the spokeswoman said.

‘We are aware of some issues around the site and are doing all we can to minimise this by working with our excellent partners Two Saints and Society of St James, as well as Portsmouth police and the hotel.’

Social distancing practices are being used at the hotel. A security team is also on site.

Residents meanwhile can report any concerns.

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The spokeswoman added: ‘Incidents of criminality have been, and will be, dealt with in liaison with police.’

A Hampshire police spokesman said: ‘We are aware of issues including crime and anti-social behaviour in the Fratton area.

‘Officers have been carrying out patrols in the area and will continue to do so. If anyone wishes to report any concerns or incidents to us, we would urge them to do so by calling 101 or doing so via our website.’

The Ibis Hotel was approached for a response. Portsmouth FC declined to comment.

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