Clear, Hold, Build

Clear, Hold, Build programme in Altab Ali Park

The Metropolitan Police Service and Tower Hamlets Council are working together on a joint operation to tackle serious and organised crime networks in the Whitechapel area. It is part of a multi-agency approach, designed by the Home Office, to use numerous tactics to disrupt crime in a particular area, called Clear, Hold, Build.

The three phases; Clear, Hold and Build are designed to use different tactics to address a problem, keep the problem away and then improve the area for all within the local community to enjoy.

The first phase is ‘Clear’ which aims to clear a particular area of gangs and organised crime. This can include a range of tactics such high visibility patrols, community and local business engagement, use of covert tactics and legislative powers open to both police and council enforcement officers.

The second phase is ‘Hold’, which uses planned interventions to stop any further organised crime or criminality filling the vacuum created by the clear operations.

The third and final phase is ‘Build’ which brings together multiple agencies, organisations and third sector charities, with the police and council to rejuvenate the area and make it a place where everyone from all aspects of the local community can enjoy.

The local operation is focusing in and around Altab Ali Park. Altab Ali Park has a rich history and cultural significance within Tower Hamlets and our aim is to return it to a location which residents, businesses and visitors can enjoy.

Throughout the planning process, the council and police have jointly been working with resident groups, local businesses and a range of community stakeholders to make sure that every phase of the operation not only addresses the crime challenges but also creates a space that can be used by everyone.

The first phase launched at the start of 2025 with an increased deployment of police, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and Tower Hamlets Enforcement Officers (THEOs) in and around Altab Ali Park.

Please speak to the police and enforcement officers if you have any questions about Clear, Hold, Build, or would like to report a crime or anti-social behaviour.

If you have information about criminal activity in the park or information to assist with tackling organised crime, please contact CEMailbox-.AltabAliPark@met.police.uk.

If you are reporting an emergency or need police immediately, call 999. You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.