Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Turner has this afternoon (Friday 14 April) invited local agencies to an urgent meeting to discuss ongoing issues with crime and antisocial behaviour at Norfolk Shops, Berwick Hills.
There have been a number of reported incidents in the area over the last few months. Residents and organisations have raised concerns directly with the PCC.
Steve will extend an invitation to representatives from Cleveland Police, Cleveland Fire Brigade, Middlesbrough Council, Youth Offending Teams, housing providers and local schools.
In addition, he will invite elected representatives for the area, including Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston.
He will request updates on the work each organisation is doing to make the area safer for local residents and to bring offenders to justice.
PCCs have the ability under the Crime and Disorder Regulations 2007 to request multi-agency meetings. This can take place when there are crime or community safety issues of significant public concern.
Steve said: “Reducing levels of antisocial behaviour and crime cannot be achieved by one organisation alone. We know that a multi-layered approach by numerous organisations is required to make lasting change.
“It’s my statutory duty as PCC to convene local organisations who have a responsibility for community safety – and to act on behalf of residents to seek reassurance that they’re doing everything they can to make the area safer.”
The meeting is scheduled to take place next week.
Berwick Hills/Pallister Park was one of two areas selected to receive crime reduction investment.
Funding was part of the fourth round of Safer Streets secured by Steve’s office. The project is ongoing. It will see a number of crime prevention measures installed around the area.