Shoplifting

In response to ongoing concerns, we’ve increased daily high-visibility patrols across the town to deter criminal activity, provide reassurance, and respond swiftly to incidents. Officers are actively engaging with businesses to share crime prevention advice and gather intelligence.

Our proactive approach is delivering results, with arrests being made weekly for offences including theft, violence, and anti-social behaviour. Repeat offenders are being targeted through enforcement and court action, leading to custodial sentences and disruption of persistent criminality.

The DISC system continues to strengthen our partnership with local businesses, enabling real-time sharing of information and helping us identify and act on individuals causing harm. We remain committed to working with the community to keep the town safe and secure.

Anti-social behaviour

We are increasing our efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) by focusing on regular, high-visibility patrols in identified hotspot areas.

Officers are actively working to identify those responsible and are addressing their behaviour through a range of proportionate measures. These include offering words of advice, engaging with parents or guardians, conducting community surveys to better understand local concerns, and issuing Community Protection Warnings (CPWs) where appropriate to prevent further harm.

Our approach combines enforcement with early intervention, aiming to reduce ASB and its impact on the wider community. We remain committed to working with residents, partners, and local organisations to create a safer and more respectful environment for everyone.

Street Community / Drinking in public

In response to ongoing concerns, we are maintaining daily patrols which have enabled us to engage more effectively and robustly with members of the street community.

Our officers are actively enforcing the conditions of the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), including the confiscation of alcohol where appropriate, to help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all. In addition, we are issuing Community Protection Warnings (CPWs) to the most persistent offenders, imposing specific behavioural conditions aimed at curbing anti-social conduct and reducing the impact on the wider community.

We are also working closely with local businesses, particularly those involved in the sale of alcohol, to raise awareness of the issues and promote responsible retail practices. This includes providing guidance on refusing sales to individuals who are known to contribute to street-level disorder.

Alongside enforcement, we continue to collaborate with partner agencies to support individuals within the street community, ensuring their welfare is considered while addressing behaviours that negatively affect public spaces. Our visible presence allows us to respond swiftly to incidents, prevent escalation, and reassure residents and visitors alike.

We remain committed to balancing firm enforcement with compassionate support, ensuring our town remains a safe and inclusive place for everyone.