£1.5 million crime fighting initiative to launch in Telford this year

Telford & Wrekin Council and West Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion have announced that they will be investing in a new Safer Communities Project.

The new project builds on the success of the recent £550,000 Safer Streets project which was launched in Brookside last November and is still ongoing.

The investment will see the council contribute £1 million, with an additional £500,000 from Mr Campion.

The project will aim to deliver initiatives that prevent crime and anti-social behaviour over a two year period and improve the quality of life for local communities.

The partnership will look to learn from initiatives implemented in Brookside to roll out new measures in priority locations that will benefit the whole borough.

It comes as some residents across the borough currently feel that there is a lack of visibility of police officers in their area.

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Councillor Richard Overton, Telford & Wrekin Council's cabinet member for enforcement, community safety and customer services, said: “It has been wonderful to see the improvements under way in Brookside and it’s fantastic news that with further investment from the council and the PCC we will be able to roll out further improvements across the borough.

“It’s important that residents feel they are supported and that the council is there to protect, care and invest in their neighbourhoods.

"By committing to making these improvements it shows that we are dedicated to making a difference to local people’s lives.

“The Safer Communities project will see greater partnership working and involve the residents so that they feel part of improving safety in their area.”

The project will also enhance the council’s Pride in our Community work and the PCC’s ongoing commitment to listen to community concerns and ensure that people are safe, and feel safe, where they live.

Mr Campion said: “This is a substantial investment that builds on the additional resources and investments in crime prevention and additional police officers in recent years.

"With the innovative partnership with the council, our joint investment will maximise the benefits to the communities in Telford, ensuring residents live in a low crime area and feel safe.

“I made a commitment as commissioner that I would tackle crime and build stronger communities, and this funding is an important step in delivering that.”