Following several conversations & meetings with Southport Business Improvement District, Merseyside Police Inspectors have promised an immediate increase in patrols throughout Southport town centre.
In the wake of the recent spate of vandalism and anti-social behaviour around the town centre, including the senseless damage to the historic shelter on the pier, Southport BID began dialogue with Merseyside Police. The BID took the concerns of the business community and its members to the Inspector over the threat to businesses, and the potential damage to the image of the town. After meeting with the Police, the BID is pleased to confirm that there will be immediate increased police presence on and around Kings Garden and throughout the town centre. Merseyside police have expressed their commitment to tackling anti-social behaviour and vandalism in the town
The police are keen to work alongside the BID and local businesses to help capture intelligence and information on offenders and crimes. They request that businesses report all petty crimes through the 101 number to help build cases and keep records of incidents. They also request those businesses with CCTV willingly share images and footage to help identify perpetrators and secure prosecutions.
Southport BID will liaise directly with the police using their Businesses Against Crime Network, which allows for sharing of information on incidents and repeat offenders between local businesses. Those who aren?t currently part of the network are encouraged to contact the BID and get involved.
Southport BID Manager Andrew Sloman believes the best way to beat those determined to threaten the town centre is to come together as a community. ?If we all work together to report crime, share information with each other and the police we can stop these vandals in their tracks. We urge local businesses to show strength in numbers, and really work with us and the police to tackle the issues. Report all incidents using the 101 number. The more reports, the more chance of prosecutions and action. We will continue to speak regularly to the police on the business community?s behalf, and fight hard to make Southport town centre a safe place to do business, and a friendly welcoming place for visitors?
To get involved with the Business Against Crime Network please Get in Touch with us at the BID office
