We’re working hard to make sure town centre is a safe place
I AM writing in response to Rhys Owen’s article in the Stockport Express on March 22.
I fully agree that all visitors must feel safe in our town and wanted to give an update on work that is taking place to help ensure that this is the case.
It’s true that there have been reports of antisocial behaviour in Stockport town centre recently. This involved a small group of people and was affecting a few areas of the town centre.
As soon as this was reported, meetings were arranged with businesses that had been affected and all relevant agencies, including the police that work as part of Stockport Safer Partnership.
As a result of this, a number of measures have been put in place to deal with these issues, including increased policing, identification of individuals involved and the use of appropriate criminal and civil sanctions.
Targeted interventions have also taken place and a programme of outreach work is underway to speak to the people involved.
Whilst it’s early days, this work has had an effect and the number of reported incidents has reduced. No one is being complacent though and the situation in the town centre will continue to be managed.
The people involved in the anti-social behaviour are a small minority of the people who visit the town centre. Unfortunately, the affect that this small minority can have can be significant which is why the council will continue to take action to protect the reputation of our town.
We’ve also recently introduced a Public Space Protection Order to deal with car cruises which were taking place on car parks in the town centre and were affecting businesses and residents.
This again shows how we’re committed to working hard with partners to ensure that the town centre remains a safe place to be.
The council is continually monitoring the situation and is also taking particular care with the new schemes at Stockport Exchange and Redrock, along with existing areas including Merseyway and the Market Place/ Underbanks, to maintain and enhance security with appropriate CCTV coverage and, where possible, a physical presence. Councillor Kate Butler Executive member for economy and regeneration Stockport Council