Firms in crime spot tell staff: Lock yourself in at night

BUSINESSES IN an area of Shipley say it has been plagued by crime and anti-social behaviour, with regular drug dealing, drug taking and soliciting.

Firms say the issue has got so bad they have instructed staff to lock themselves in the building when working late at night.

The concerns were raised in a planning application to make the site, Hirst Wood Works, more secure.

The application, by John Brooksbank, was to install a gate and fencing to the business site, off Hirst Wood Road.

It said the site – accessible to general traffic –- was regularly used by criminals.

The application was approved by Bradford Council.

Business on the site, next to the rail line, wrote letters of support for the plans and highlighted the issues they face.

Mr Brooksbank said: “I have worked on this site since 1984 and I fully support the application. Over recent years anti-social behaviour has increased to an unacceptable level and while local police respond to specific complaints it makes little or no difference to the drug dealing and drug taking.”

Inspector Craig Stothers said: “We are aware of a handful of offences of anti-social behaviour in this area.

“We would welcome any application for enhanced security measures to help make local businesses and residents feel safe.”