Adnams, in Bury St Edmunds, applies for security gate after rough sleepers use recessed shop entrance
A Bury St Edmunds town centre shop is hoping to install a security gate to prevent rough sleepers using its entrance.
Adnams cellar and kitchen, on Cornhill, has applied for a collapsible metal gate after a new group of rough sleepers caused a ‘nightmare’.
A design, access and heritage statement submitted to West Suffolk Council said: “The applicants and their staff at the cellar and kitchen have been experiencing increasing troubles with rough sleepers using the recessed shop front entrance.”
It added: “Our retail team have had a nightmare this week with a new group that have moved into the foyer, causing staff and the business much disruption and stress to move them on.
“I think pretty much all other units in the area, including the museum, have grills or gates installed.”
Mark Cordell, chief executive of business improvement district Our Bury St Edmunds, said: “It is disappointing that one of our businesses has got to go to this expense, but I know that staff have had to come into work and deal with the debris left behind by people sleeping rough with no consideration for the business or staff.
“This year has been quite problematic in the town centre for rough sleepers, but since June/July time there has been a real commitment by police, the council and us to address the issue, which in general has been achieved.
“My concern is that when one or two of the more problematic individuals are not in the town the level of problem reduces, but when they return it increases. I am aware that these individuals are back in Bury now."
The Grade II-listed 17th century building containing two shops has exposed timbers on the first floor. It was once a house and shop, but was altered extensively in the late 20th century.
The proposed gate for Adnams folds away and would only be visible when the shop is closed, although a locking post would be installed.
A West Suffolk Council spokesman said: “We are continuing to do all we can to encourage rough sleepers to take up the support and accommodation available."
“We have a rough sleeper support team and the necessary accommodation in place to help people off of the streets – but they have got to be willing to accept the help on offer.
“We also encourage people not to give money to people they see on the streets during the day, many of whom are already accommodated and have a place to sleep at night, but to instead donate to the Bury Drop In’s Looking for Change campaign.”
West Suffolk Council’s latest rough sleeper figures, up to October, show there are 11 rough sleepers in Bury.
If you suspect someone is rough sleeping, report it at www.streetlink.org.uk or call 01284 757178.
