Police up patrols as town enters ‘new normal’

IN a bid to ease us into the “new normal” of shopping that kicked off this week, Cheltenham police have been patrolling the streets to make sure it has all run smoothly.

The Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team are running an operation this week to coincide with the reopening of non-essential shops and businesses.

Starting on Monday, and continuing through to Sunday, officers have been conducting regular patrols in the town centre and at retail parks following the easing of government guidelines around shopping.

Gloucestershire Constabulary said: “Increasing the policing presence within the town centre and retail parks, officers are aiming to provide reassurance to the public during what some may see as strange circumstances, reduce any potential offending and encourage engagement”.

Officers will also be available to support businesses with any issues that may arise within their premises such as opportunistic shoplifting, anti-social behaviour or problems related to social distancing.

Areas that patrols will target include the Lower High Street, Brewery Quarter and the Town Centre East car park and the community engagement vehicle will be available as a point where people can raise any concerns.

Sergeant Steve Benbow said: “It is anticipated that there may be a rise in reports of anti-social behaviour and shoplifting at shops in Cheltenham with more people visiting and we are hoping to prevent this from happening.

“We are optimistic that shoppers will co-operate and be happy that businesses are reopening after all of this time, however we will be conducting proactive patrols to spot those who may look to take advantage of this by shoplifting or acting anti-socially.

“We have been in contact with local businesses, the council, security companies and BID ambassadors to ensure that there is a multi-agency approach for when shops reopen today and so that businesses are aware that my team will be available if support is needed.”