Hotspot patrols launched in Bideford to tackle antisocial behaviour and serious violence

Members of the team at TDC, Councillors and the street marshals we have commissioned, as well as the council's CCTV operatives and police representatives, all came together last Monday at a launch event to learn more about the proven methodology of hotspot policing.

Bideford is one of the first towns to launch street marshal patrols funded by a hotspot policing initiative in Devon and Cornwall. The patrols aim to provide a reassuring presence to help people feel safe while also proactively disrupting crime and acting as a deterrent.

Cllr Philip Hackett, Lead Member for Public Health & Community Safety, Torridge District Council said:

"We want our town centres to be vibrant and welcoming, so it's vital that residents and visitors can enjoy these spaces feeling safe and protected. As Councillors we have been lobbying the Police and Crime Commissioner for several years for funding for Street Marshals in Bideford as we have seen how important they are in assisting with control of antisocial behaviour (ASB) in the town.

"Our close partnership with the police already includes joint working arrangements in both the police station and the council offices, in addition to regular joint patrols and visits. These additional ASB Hotspot patrols will enhance the valuable work already undertaken, capitalising on the existing work around public and community safety, reassurance, and harm-reduction."

July 24