Could the authorities please do something about the increasing number of people begging in the St Stephens Street area.
Last week, practically every day, between Iceland at the top of the street down to Surrey Street, I counted six people begging and that's not counting the two on the opposite side of the road between Chapelfield and the corner of Marks and Spencer. With BHS closing, the entrance area has been 'converted' into an unsightly 'bedroom'.
On Saturday evening whilst waiting for the bus at the top of St Stephens, people including myself, had to be subjected to the harassment of a girl asking for money from everyone individually — followed by a male with a dog draped around his neck and shoulders. I find this all unpleasant and intimidating. I always give to collections for genuine charities — either in the street or in stores — having spent hours doing such collections myself over the years.
I am willing to give to several of the excellent buskers we have in Norwich who regularly entertain us on Gentleman's Walk and the surrounding area. Please someone sort this out before we have to rename St Stephens 'Beggars Row'.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here