A cash injection to help reduce violent crime on Teesside is seen as vital to boost a town's night-time economy.
The Cleveland Unit for the Reduction of Violence (CURV) has granted £61,500 to central Middlesbrough after a successful bid to help lower the incidents of serious violent crime in the town.
After an overall rise in serious violent crime, incidents related to nights out in the town have increased 66.5 per cent since 2018-19.
The grant includes £10,000 which is to be allocated to provide and replace knife wands at licensed premises, with more than 50 licensed premises in the town to receive at least two more each.
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The money will be spent on a range of initiatives with a focus on tackling knife and alcohol-related crime.
Middlesbrough Council hopes to achieve this through crime prevention messages and measures to reduce the harm caused by incidents of serious violence and knife crime.
It's hoped that an increased confidence and a reduction of fear of crime among the public will boost pubs, clubs, bars, restaurants, takeaways and taxis who would see an increase in trade as a result of the funding.
The new cash will help to extend the Boro Angels’ crackdown on drink spiking, promote the Night Time Economy Safety Campaign and provide training for licensees and door staff.
Middlesbrough town centre's CCTV control room team will also be increased at key times.
Councillor Tony Grainge, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Neighbourhood Safety, said: “The town centre is Middlesbrough’s engine room, and our night-time economy is vital to our future growth and prosperity.
“Visitors – and the staff who serve them – must have absolute confidence that they’ll be safe on a night out, and we work closely with all our licensed premises and a range of partners to make sure that’s the case.
“This welcome funding will further boost those efforts, and ensure Middlesbrough remains a major regional destination for leisure and recreation.”
Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Turner said: “Middlesbrough is well known for its lively nightlife – and everyone wants that reputation to continue and grow.
“However, we also want the town centre to be safe for all visitors. We want people to spread the message that Middlesbrough is not just a good night out, but that they felt protected when they use its businesses.
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“With similar investments being made in the other three areas of Cleveland, I’m confident we can significantly improve safety for those enjoying a night on the town.”
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