Anti-social behaviour patrols launched to protect Southport businesses

Companies and civic assets across Southport are to be protected by new anti-social behaviour patrols after a leading local councillor joined forces with business leaders to secure funding.

Sefton councillor David Barton has overseen the introduction of the new patrols following concern about instances of vandalism and bad behaviour in the town.

The cost of the new service, which is being supplied by private company Battle Investigations Liverpool is being met by local businesses.

The patrols will focus on the town centre and surrounding areas and will liaise directly with the police when they believe a crime is taking place.

Cllr Barton, who represents Dukes Ward, said: “I’ve been working away for the past four months canvassing the businesses on their priorities and concerns. The businesses told me that they were very concerned about vandalism and anti-social behaviour so I’ve hand lengthy negotiations with private contractors to provide regular anti-social behaviour patrols at key times through the day.”

Cllr Barton, a leading campaigner for the regeneration and restoration of Southport town centre, added: “I’m please to say that I’ve secured funding from key businesses in the town and the surrounding area to pay for this service. There will be patrols checking on businesses and civic assets.

“We have been working closely with businesses to restore the area with various restoration campaigns and we do not want all the good work and effort to be wasted through graffiti, vandalism and poor behaviour.”

The patrol vehicles contain CCTV equipment and recording facilities and are crewed by two security-licensed officers.

One of the businesses involved in the scheme is Wrights jewellers. Ray Parkinson manager of the company said: “We appreciate the work David has provided in addressing anti-social issues in and around the town centre which have been affecting local businesses. There is a clear need for this and I should like to commend Cllr Barton for all his ongoing work to improve our Classic Resort town.”

Cllr Barton added: “This is something that key businesses have asked for. Whilst I was visiting them there was a common thread in what they said in that they felt they needed support with antisocial behaviour problems and some even felt customers were being intimidated.”