Residents of George Street in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, report that they witness 'blatant' drug dealing and people 'off their heads' on a daily basis. The street is less than a two-minute walk from Christ Church C of E Primary school. Last Wednesday, police arrested two people on suspicion of dealing crack cocaine after executing a warrant at a property on the street.
Residents Share CCTV Evidence
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, provided Metro with CCTV clips showing individuals walking down an alleyway on the street. The alley, a dead end leading to a garage, is reportedly frequented by drug dealers and users. The resident described the situation as shocking: 'The brashness of the drug taking is shocking. They are sitting on kerbs out of their heads.' They recounted an incident where a man, completely intoxicated, sat on the street for 15 minutes before regaining enough composure to walk away.
Concerns for Children and Vulnerable Residents
The resident expressed deep concern for the children living on the street: 'There are kids playing on the street. We really care about these kids and they’re on the street running around, playing and doing the normal stuff that kids do. They are adorable and very polite and we are very annoyed as a community that they have all this drug taking and dealing going on around them.' The resident also noted that some elderly and unsteady neighbors feel anxious due to the anti-social behaviour.
New Year's Eve Incident
Another resident described seeing a group of women 'off their heads' on drugs on New Year's Eve. After they left, the resident found a glass pipe believed to be used for smoking crack cocaine. When picked up, the pipe caused a sensation like an electric shock, likely from residual chemicals. The pipe was later dropped off at a police donation bin.
Dry Houses and Alleyway Dealings
The road is home to two dry houses, where recovering addicts undergo rehabilitation. Residents say alleyways behind the houses are used for drug deals, though some deals occur openly on the street. Despite close contact with Avon and Somerset Police, North Somerset Council, and local Labour MP Dan Aldridge—all described as 'brilliant' in responding—residents feel they must report issues multiple times a year before action is taken.
Police Response
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the arrest of a man and a woman on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine. Sergeant Joe Pitman stated: 'We were able to apply for a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant following information shared with us by the local community. I am extremely grateful to those people who have come forward. Without the support of the community, we would not have been able to take such positive action. We will continue to relentlessly pursue and disrupt those that push Class A drugs and engage in persistent and harmful anti-social behaviour within the town.'
Metro has contacted North Somerset Council and Mr Aldridge for comment.
