Road safety.

Issued 15 April 2026

Road safety remains a priority in Birling, Leybourne and Ryarsh. Over the last 3 months, officers have carried out regular high-visibility patrols using both marked and unmarked police vehicles, as well as foot patrols in locations identified through community concerns and local intelligence.

Speed checks have taken place across the ward to address concerns about speeding and driving standards. Where offences have been identified, drivers have been dealt with through enforcement action or educational advice.

This ongoing work aims to improve road safety, reduce risks to pedestrians and other road users, and reassure residents that concerns about speeding and unsafe driving are being actively addressed. Officers will continue to monitor the area and take action where necessary.

Actioned 02 July 2026

Burglary

Issued 15 April 2026

There have been 3 reported burglaries in Birling, Leybourne and Ryarsh during the past 3 months.

In response, officers have carried out high-visibility patrols in affected areas to provide reassurance and help deter further offences. Residents have also been given crime prevention advice, including ways to improve home security and guidance on reporting suspicious activity.

Patrols have focused on identifying suspicious vehicles and individuals in residential areas, while local officers continue to monitor crime trends and community intelligence to help direct patrols and target activity where it is needed most.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help prevent and detect burglary offences.

Actioned 02 July 2026

Catapults.

Issued 15 April 2026

The use of catapults remains a concern within the ward, with three related incidents reported during the last 3 months.

In response, officers have carried out targeted patrols and spoken with local residents to gather information and identify those responsible. Where there are lawful grounds, officers have also carried out stop and searches. These searches have resulted in drugs being seized and other offences being identified.

High-visibility patrols in hotspot areas help deter antisocial behaviour and provide reassurance to local residents. Officers will continue to monitor reports, gather information and take appropriate action where concerns or offences are identified.

Actioned 02 July 2026