Concern over rise in levels of crime
SECURITY will be stepped up in one town when partners including the police believe it is required, says a senior councillor, following concerns about rising crime levels.
Coun Jenny Lynn made the pledge after concerns about rising crime levels in Halifax were raised at Calderdale Council’s Cabinet.
Coun James Baker (Lib Dem, Warley) said he was concerned about rising crime particularly following on from social media reports that a woman had been attacked with a needle in a Halifax nightclub potentially by someone trying to date rape her.
Looking at the crime statistics, he had read there had been 560 violent and/or sexual offences in the last month and 4,004 in the last quarter, the highest level since 2019.
“I wanted to ask what measures are Cabinet taking to make sure Halifax is a safe town to go out in and to tackle the causes of the rising crime?” said Coun Baker.
Cabinet member for Public Services and Communities, Coun Lynn (Lab, Park) said the district was not under particular scrutiny by West Yorkshire Police for its crime performance.
“However, we are working with our partners to create a safer Calderdale,” she said.
The council had invested heavily in its community protection service and this had seen increased warden presence across Calderdale, said Coun Lynn.
“We particularly recognise that Halifax is a key area of concern.
“We have a number of tools available to us which we utilise weekly to keep the people safe, specifically in the town centre.
“What I really want to do is provide a reassurance that where we are aware of events that will bring more people into the night time economy we will provide an increased partnership with the police, and where necessary a joint patrol room to enhance the work that is already being delivered,” said Coun Lynn.