Exeter’s Fore Street faces challenges from drug use and anti-social behavior, impacting local businesses and community safety.
Exeter: Fore Street is struggling with issues from street drinkers and drug users. Local businesses are feeling the impact. Traders report wild scenes that disrupt shopping.
Groups of people are camping out, playing music, and using drugs openly. This behavior is turning shoppers away. Business owners are frustrated and worried about their livelihoods.
One coffee shop owner tried to help by offering free coffee. But he stopped when people started asking for spoons to use for heroin. Another shop owner saw people cooking on a barbecue outside a charity shop.
Traders say the street, known for its independent stores, is losing its charm. They feel police aren’t doing enough to address the problem. A new action plan is in place, but it requires everyone to work together.
One trader described the situation as horrendous. He mentioned fights and people breaking bottles. Another trader noted that the homeless in Exeter are more aggressive than those in other cities.
Recently, police treated a fire at the former EX4 nightclub as arson. The entrance is now blackened and charred. Street drinkers often gather in sheltered areas nearby.
Sidwell Street has been a hotspot for anti-social behavior for years. Traders feel Fore Street is being overlooked. One trader mentioned hearing about free breakfasts attracting homeless people from other cities.
Last year, a woman collapsed from an overdose. When bystanders tried to help, they faced threats instead. Drug use is a daily occurrence, and traders want police to take action.
Shoplifting is also a concern. One owner lost expensive jackets to a thief. He later saw one of the stolen jackets on a woman in the crowd.
John Creek, a local business owner, noted that many street users are not homeless but live in nearby shelters. He described their disruptive behavior, including loud karaoke sessions.
John said customers avoid the area due to the chaos. He mentioned that the smell of marijuana is common every morning. He feels police presence is lacking.
Initially, he offered free coffee to rough sleepers, but that ended when requests for spoons increased. He believes more control is needed to improve the situation.
Exeter’s Neighbourhood Inspector acknowledged the issues and mentioned a new action plan. The goal is to reclaim public spaces and address the behavior of troublemakers.
He emphasized that homelessness is not a crime. However, he promised to intervene if anti-social behavior continues. Police have issued warnings to those crossing the line.
Despite the challenges, the inspector reassured that Exeter is safer than it seems. He believes Fore Street is not forgotten and efforts are underway to improve the situation.