Operated by: Staffordshire Police
https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/article/2940/Hanley-Park--SheltonShelton South is a diverse community. It is home to the Stoke campus of Staffordshire University and the city’s Sixth Form College.
Shelton is largely populated by students and an Asian community. The area is also known as the University Quarter.
In the heart of the community is a large Victorian park which has the Cauldon Canal running through it.
Current Priorities
Issue
Tackling motorbike and moped theft.
Action
Operation Alcaic is a newly launched initiative focused on tackling the rising theft of motorbikes and mopeds across the city. We now have a dedicated officer leading on this priority, and early results have already seen several key arrests.
This operation closely links with our ongoing work under Operation Transom, targeting anti-social behaviour involving nuisance motorbikes. We are working in close partnership with our Roads Policing Team, using specialist tactics, NPAS (police helicopter), and drone technology to identify and apprehend offenders.
These crimes are not only causing financial loss and distress to victims but also endangering the lives of both the offenders and other road users. We remain committed to taking robust enforcement action and encourage all residents to secure their bikes, keep them out of sight where possible, and report any suspicious activity or intelligence to us.
Issue
Strengthening community-police relations. We recognise the importance of trust and visibility, particularly within our diverse communities, and we are committed to ensuring all residents feel heard, respected, and supported.
Action
In recent months, we have embedded Operation Alberio—a nationally recognised, evidence-based policing initiative. This approach has combined robust enforcement activity across a range of crime types with strong partnership working. Alongside the local authority and others, we have focused on environmental improvements, such as clearing fly tipping, making derelict buildings safe, and enhancing shared public spaces. These efforts have already delivered results, with a significant 20% reduction in overall crime in the area.
As we move forward, we want to build on this success by deepening trust, particularly within our Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities. We will be doing this through a range of engagement initiatives, including ‘Meet the Commander’ events, PCSO-led drop-in surgeries, educational visits to local schools, and an ongoing visible presence within the neighbourhood.
Issue
Anti-social behaviour linked to drug use and homelessness. We understand the impact this can have on residents, local businesses, and perceptions of safety in the area, and we are taking a balanced approach that supports both community wellbeing and vulnerable individuals.
Action
Our PCSOs continue to maintain a high-visibility presence in key locations, providing reassurance to the public and acting as a point of contact for any concerns. In recent months, we have seen an increase in rough sleeping, and we are working closely with the local authority and homelessness support charities to ensure that those in need are offered appropriate support and engagement. Our focus is on providing long-term, sustainable outcomes—connecting individuals with housing, mental health, and addiction services where necessary—while also addressing behaviours that may cause distress to others. This work will remain a key priority over the coming months as we strive to reduce anti-social behaviour and improve the wider environment for all members of the community.
Issue
Violence in Hanley Park
Action
We are working closely with our partners to address a spate of reports in Hanley Park, where incidents of assault, robbery, and criminal damage have been raised. In response, we will be carrying out a mix of high-visibility patrols and targeted undercover operations to identify those responsible and bring offenders to justice. We take these reports extremely seriously and are committed to doing everything we can to make the park a safer place, ensuring local residents and families can enjoy it with confidence.
Issue
Welcoming a new cohort of students to University of Staffordshire
Action
We’re also working with Staffordshire University to welcome a new cohort of freshers to the area. Our teams will be out and about offering plenty of crime prevention advice, helping students settle in safely and confidently. We want to make sure their time here is enjoyable, so they can focus on their studies and making the most of university life.
Upcoming Events
Online surgery
Where: Longton police station
When: 24 September 2025 at 17:00 - 24 September 2025 at 19:00
Online Chat
Where: Longton Police Station
When: 29 October 2025 at 18:00 - 29 October 2025 at 20:00
Online Chat
Where: Longton Police Station
When: 26 November 2025 at 18:00 - 26 November 2025 at 20:00
Online Chat
Where: Longton Police Station
When: 17 December 2025 at 18:00 - 17 December 2025 at 20:00