Super six who will BID to keep you safe
NEW TEAM TO PATROL TOWN CENTRE AS LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS EASE
SIX new faces will be patrolling the town centre as lockdown restrictions continue to ease.
As part of a six-month trial funded by Kirklees Council, half-a-dozen ‘town centre support officers’ have been recruited by Huddersfield Business Improvement District (BID).
The officers will act as Covid wardens as a large number of Huddersfield town centre’s businesses gear up to reopen on April 12.
They will be expected to remind shoppers of the Covid-safe measures currently in place as well as report antisocial behaviour and environmental issues, such as damaged pavements or street furniture.
Colin Parr, strategic director for environment and climate change at Kirklees Council, said: “After a challenging 12 months we know our town centre businesses will be raring to go once Covid-19 restrictions ease – but some shoppers may be nervous about returning to the town centre again.
“That’s why we are working with Huddersfield BID to do all we can to build the confidence of the town, and welcome people back in the most positive and safe way we can.
“The town centre officers play a vital role in supporting and educating visitors on how to stay Covid-safe, providing a reassuring presence and, in partnership with the police, making sure any anti-social behaviour is dealt with quickly and efficiently.
“They also keep the area clean and report graffiti, broken street furniture, and problems on the highway so we can speed up repairs and make sure the town looks attractive.”
Matthew Chapman, Huddersfield BID manager, added: “Huddersfield BID is very much committed to promoting a safe, welcoming and attractive town with lots on offer and this team of six town centre officers strengthens that in abundance.
“This partnership is a shining example of the positive impact of working together which is essential now more than ever and I would encourage businesses and people alike to join us on this journey.”
To further support the reopening of the town centre, the council is offering tailored Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) bags to businesses and community organisations.
The free packs will include various items, including hand sanitiser and face coverings, and eligible businesses should have received a letter inviting them to book a slot for collection or delivery.
Eligible businesses include: nonessential
Huddersfield BID is committed to promoting a safe, welcoming and
attractive town.
Matthew Chapman
retail shops; hospitality businesses; gyms; hairdressers; personal care services; taxi firms; market traders; voluntary and faith organisations.
Businesses who believe they are eligible for a pack, but are yet to receive a letter, can enquire at PPE.C19@kirklees.gov.uk.