Candid communication
Benidorm business owners meet with police over security concerns
A GROUP of British business owners met with a representative of the National Police on Monday afternoon to discuss their concerns on safety in Benidorm - something that affects both locals and holidaymakers.
Benidorm survives predominantly on tourism. The majority of tourists are British and all those present had the same vested interest – to make the town safe to ensure that they continue coming.
Social media is fuelling much negative press about the resort, with rumours circulating daily, and the meeting was arranged to open up channels of communication. Over the last few months, Karen Maling Cowles been meeting regularly with Juan Bautista from the National Police to raise issues which she as a business owner has witnessed, or has been asked to raise on behalf of others.
Also in attendance were: Wayne and Des Bellamy-Wright; Vikki Caton of Hepburns Hair & Beauty Salon; David Garcia Cooke of Tony’s Money Exchange; Gary George, entertainer and Carousel Bar; and Helen, John and Carol Ann from Tartan Shamrock Bar.
Juan expressed his thanks and appreciation to everyone for coming and began by saying how concerned he was about the image of the resort, acknowledging the hard work that lies ahead.
He listened and noted each and every comment and, where possible, responded. He recognised that the Local and National Police should be working together, but admitted that for the last two years the coordination between the two forces had stalled.
The Local Police are employed directly by the town hall and the construction of the new SATE office in the Rincón is their responsibility – a question that was also raised. The reporting of any crime that takes place is crucial and once the relocated SATE office is open then it was accepted that more would probably do so.
What all unanimously agreed upon was the need for a greater visible police presence at night, especially on Calle Gerona, Calle Lepanto and the Square – areas popular with visiting Brits and where friction arises, something that Juan recognised and accepted.
Some of the other issues raised were the pea men, prostitutes, doormen, mobility scooters, CCTV street cameras, bar crawls, hotel security and arriving coaches being targeted by thieves. On the last issue, the tour operators had all been contacted and asked to inform police when they had arrivals so that they could ensure a police presence, but shockingly none had responded to the request.
The National Police have commissioned a short ‘Preventative Plan’ film on how to stay safe on holiday, warning holidaymakers not to engage with the pea men and to be aware of pickpockets. The idea is that the film will be played on incoming transfer buses and in hotels. It was also suggested that bars could show it on their television screens.
All those in attendance were equally passionate about the resort, and for everyone their livelihoods depend on it. Working together is important, and fluid, honest communication between all factions is essential to ensure that Benidorm, the resort loved by all, flourishes and continues to thrive.