STATEMENT FROM CAMDEN’S DRUG ACTION TEAM

14 February 2006

Camden’s Drug Action Team (DAT) has decided to withdraw a planning application for a centre to tackle the problems caused by drug addiction in the West End, today (Tuesday 14 February 2006).

The decision follows updated information from Transport for London (TfL) with firm plans to take over the proposed site by mid 2007 to upgrade Tottenham Court Road station. Its decision would mean the site would be closed to pedestrians and service users alike within twelve months of the proposed centre opening. This would have a serious impact on the viability of the scheme in terms of sustainable service provision for the service users, and value for money.

A planning application for a needle exchange and a treatment gateway in an underused part of a subway on the East side of Charing Cross Road was submitted to Camden Council on 6 January 2006. The proposed centre aimed to break the cycle of drug addiction, reduce crime and prevent the spread of viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis B and C.

Commenting on the decision, Rob Larkman, Chair of Camden Drug Action Team said: “Camden’s Drug Action Team is extremely disappointed that it will not be able to progress with the planning application for a needle exchange and treatment gateway at this site. We remain committed to providing facilities to reduce the harm caused by drugs to the community and drug users themselves. Getting drug users into treatment is an essential step to reducing crime and anti-social behaviour. In the meantime, allowing drug users to swap dirty needles for clean will stop needles being left lying around in public. This will reduce the risk of viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis B and C being spread amongst drug users and passers by.

“We have had an ongoing dialogue with TfL following the identification of the Tottenham Court Road site as the most suitable - after looking at other options through an extensive trawl of suitable locations. The subway premises subway were always intended as a temporary solution as the longer-term plan to find a permanent site is progressing.

“Given that TfL has long-term plans for the station, we have been trying to clearly establish firm timescales to see whether the temporary use by the DAT for a fixed-site needle exchange was possible. Subsequent to the planning application being submitted, TfL have now confirmed the timing of its works.

“Unfortunately, the timing of TfL’s works means this site will no longer be viable and would not provide value for money because of the short length of time it could be open.

“We will be looking at other options with the community and members of the DAT at forthcoming meetings in March.”

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