Vows not to be dogged by youth crime
A MAJOR Toowoomba shopping centre has pledged to improve its security and CCTV to “reassure” customers amid ongoing concerns about youth crime across the city.
Clifford Gardens Shopping Centre is one of several commercial precincts being targeted by police for crime prevention activities this week.
It comes after residents called for reforms to youth justice laws following a spike in violent repeat offenders committing crimes across the region.
In addition to Clifford Gardens, other confirmed sites for the Mobile Police Beat unit will include Grand Central and Wilsonton Shopping Centre, as well as the Toowoomba Plaza.
Clifford Gardens was named by some residents at a recent Toowoomba youth crime forum as an unsafe place, especially for elderly people.
However, management at the centre said in a statement it had taken on the concerns and was working to improve security and undertake various initiatives.
“In light of recent incidences which have taken place across Toowoomba, we want to reassure the community that the safety of our customers remains our highest priority,” the statement said.
“We remain a proud part of the Toowoomba community and are committed to ensuring Clifford Gardens is a safe environment for our customers, retailers and staff.
“Our centre management team are currently working with key members of the Toowoomba community, including local government and police, to understand how we can be proactive and implement additional risk mitigating measures.
“This includes an increase of police presence in the centre, with the implementation of both mobile and permanent Police Beats.
“In addition to this, we are offering community initiatives, such as ‘coffee with a cop and centre management’, where community members can offer feedback to our shopping centre’s decision-makers in a safe and approachable environment.” The Chronicle however understands that Toowoomba police are not looking at opening any more permanent Police Beat branches at this time.
The statement said the centre had taken steps to improve security and CCTV technology.
“Following the recent youth crimes experienced across the Toowoomba region, the centre has commenced works to improve CCTV and are undertaking a review of our security resources,” it said.
“Other initiatives are under way, including discussions with National Retail Association.
“They are assisting with resources to provide accredited training to retailers at Clifford Gardens Shopping Centre to de-escalate situations with customers.
“Clifford Gardens remains an active community participant in combating the rise in anti-social behaviour in the Toowoomba region, and we welcome all feedback that allows us to provide a safe and enjoyable shopping experience for our customers.”