A Reading councillor has called for action over a ‘drug dealing hub’ in the town.

Kentwood Hill recycling point is a ‘drug menace’, with criminals using the layby and wooded area to make illegal exchanges, according to Cllr Raj Singh.

The glass and clothes recycling site has also become a dump for anything people want to chuck away, the Kentwood councillor added.

“Some residents have witnessed drug dealing being carried out brazenly through the car window with no regard for cars passing in broad daylight,” he told the Reading Chronicle.

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Conservative councillor Singh described how the abundance of trees and hedges combined with a lack of houses overlooking the area has created a hotspot.

“The police will not be able to tackle the drug menace by themselves. Local measures are needed.

“It is essential to promote community interactions such as holding community activities and organising a drug education programme.”

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said they encourage people to make reports about drug crime to allow them to build a full intelligence picture about particular areas.

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“Tackling drug crime is a priority for Thames Valley Police, and we have dedicated Stronghold teams who focus on targeting those bringing drugs into our communities, and to cut off supply to those dealing locally.”

A spokesperson for Reading Borough Council said: "Our anti-social behaviour team do not have a case open for the Kentwood Hill recycling bins as a hub for drug activity but are investigating this matter with Cllr Singh.

"For such matters, the ASB Team work in partnership with Thames Valley Police to tackle problematic behaviours in the community, and encourage residents to report issues directly to the ASB Team on 01189 373787 or ASB.Team@reading.gov.uk."

"The Council also works closely with agencies like Change Grow Live (CGL) who provide drug and alcohol support to individuals including detox services, health assessments, needle exchange and peer-led activities."

Reports can me made to police by calling 101 or reporting online. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.