Extra security patrols are being provided in Plymouth city centre thanks to the Plymouth City Centre Company.
The company has agreed to pay for the extra patrols by Plymouth Against Retail Crime (PARC) officers, following requests from city centre businesses concerned about a recent increase in anti-social behaviour and aggressive begging.
Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company, said:
“We recently carried out a survey of city centre businesses and it was quite clear that the work of the PARC rangers was greatly valued.
“But it also emerged that businesses wanted to see more action in tackling anti-social behaviour which is on the increase and can be off-putting for visitors and shoppers. The quickest way to deal with that is to provide these extra patrols but we will also be talking to the police and other agencies to see what extra help can be provided.”
The extra seven-day-a-week patrols include a dedicated ranger for the West End where there has been a noticeable rise in incidents associated with street drinking.
The PARC rangers have powers, granted by Devon and Cornwall Police, to tackle anti-social behaviour which include confiscating alcohol when being consumed in a public space.
Mr Hughes added:
“Businesses have told us what they want and we are tackling it head on. As the Business Improvement District for the city centre, we are doing everything we can to bring in more shoppers and visitors. A safe and welcoming city centre is an important part of the offer.”
Phil Look, owner of The Toolshed DIY store in Frankfort Gate, said:
“The PARC rangers have been a great help and support in the previous months and we have had successful prosecutions which would not have happened without their involvement. We strongly believe crime would increase without their presence.”
Caption Phil Look of the Toolshed DIY with the PARC rangers
