A new multi-million-pound scheme has been agreed to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour in a North East town.
The Middlesbrough project will see more police officers, neighbourhood safety wardens and council staff on the streets, backed up by improved CCTV monitoring and extra support for vulnerable people.
Funding comes from the £1.3m Tees Valley Investment Zone, with Middlesbrough Council contributing £140,000 and up to £937,000 in match funding from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “This is about making a real, visible difference in Middlesbrough town centre - cracking down on crime and yob behaviour.
“We know that safe, welcoming town centres are absolutely vital to attracting businesses, boosting visitor numbers and driving economic growth. By bringing together our partners and taking a joined-up approach, we’re not only tackling the root causes of crime but creating the conditions for Middlesbrough to thrive."
The plan has been developed jointly by the Tees Valley Combined Authority, Middlesbrough Council, Cleveland Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
As well as putting more uniformed staff on the ground, it will expand support for people facing problems such as domestic abuse, homelessness and substance misuse, and build on existing services including the Middlesbrough Safe Haven.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “Great things are happening in our town centre.
“We’ll soon host the famous arts Turner Prize at MIMA and celebrate the football club’s 150th anniversary together as a town. Alongside all that positivity we’re determined to make sure the town centre feels like a safe and welcoming environment so we can continue making Middlesbrough thrive."
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Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey said: "Residents regularly tell me about their concerns around town centre safety, with many witnessing antisocial behaviour, retail crime and drug-related offending on a regular basis.
"This isn't right - everyone should be able to visit local leisure spaces without feeling fearful or worried about their safety.
"I'm confident that this approach to invest in high visibility patrols, tough enforcement action and support for vulnerable people will make a real impact in improving safety for visitors, businesses and town centre workers.”
The new measures are expected to begin next month, once financial and legal checks have been completed.
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