I am privileged to put forward the nomination of the Marble Arch Partnership Street Wardens for the prestigious Emergency Response Award. The Marble Arch BID (Business Improvement District) was established in 2016, in response to significant concerns raised by local businesses regarding the high levels of anti-social behaviour in the area. In response to these concerns, the Marble Arch Street Team was introduced to provide a visible and reassuring presence, working directly with local businesses, Westminster City Council, and the Metropolitan Police to maintain safety and reduce criminal activity in the area.
In April 2023, Lodge Service was awarded the contract, providing a team consisting of four street wardens and a supervisor. This team operates six days a week, ensuring that Marble Arch remains a safe and welcoming environment for all who live, work, and visit the area. The Street Team goes beyond basic patrols, assisting with joint police patrols, supporting emergency services at major events, and engaging with local businesses to ensure a safe and secure environment.
On Saturday, 24th August 2024, while on routine patrol in one of our local car parks, the Street Team noticed a vehicle emitting smoke from the front grill. Recognising the potential danger, the team immediately assessed the situation. They acted quickly and efficiently, contacting the fire brigade without hesitation.
This fast response proved to be critical. The fire brigade arrived swiftly, able to extinguish the fire before it could spread and cause significant damage or danger to the surrounding area. Thanks to the team’s prompt actions, the potential for a larger incident was averted, and the safety of the public, as well as the integrity of the property, was preserved. This moment demonstrated the Street Team’s ability to remain calm under pressure, prioritise safety, and act with urgency when needed. The professional and swift handling of this situation earned high praise from the customer involved as well as the Lodge Senior team, who were impressed by the team’s quick thinking and their seamless coordination with the fire brigade. The incident is a prime example of the Street Team’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the community and reinforces the essential role they play in Marble Arch.
While this particular response stands out, it is by no means an isolated event. The Marble Arch Partnership Street Wardens are consistently proactive in addressing various issues across the area. They serve as a critical part of the community’s safety infrastructure, always on hand to respond to emergencies, offer support, and provide assistance wherever needed. Whether it is helping the police during an investigation, offering welfare checks for vulnerable individuals, or assisting businesses during critical events, the team’s commitment to ensuring public safety is unwavering.
In addition to their operational duties, the team continuously engages with the public, offering practical assistance and fostering a sense of security among local residents and businesses. Their approachable and friendly demeanour makes them a trusted presence in the area. The feedback from businesses, residents, and other stakeholders reflects the team’s positive impact on the Marble Arch community. The team’s ability to build strong, positive relationships with members of the community and other emergency services is one of the many reasons they are so deserving of this recognition.
In conclusion, the Marble Arch Partnership Street Wardens are a deserving recipient of the Emergency Response Award, given their exceptional actions on Saturday, 24th August, and their consistent dedication to ensuring public safety in the Marble Arch area. Their professionalism, swift decision-making, and commitment to the well-being of the community make them a valuable asset to the area and a role model for others in the industry.