A crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) will take place across Wiltshire this summer as part of a new police initiative.
The Safer Streets Summer campaign, running until the end of September, aims to reduce serious violence, knife crime and ASB in town centres across the county, with a focus on known trouble spots in Swindon, Salisbury, Chippenham, Trowbridge and Marlborough.
The force says its hotspot patrols will be informed by real-time crime data and community feedback, allowing them to be visible at locations such as railway and bus stations, town centres and areas with higher reports of retail crime and public disorder.
Officers will also target illegal e-scooter and e-bike use and work with partner agencies to tackle organised shoplifting and repeat offenders.
Mobile police stations, CCTV, and facial recognition will be deployed to improve response and reassurance in problem areas. Community Payback projects, Walk and Talk sessions, and joint council patrols are also planned, alongside attending events and festivals.
The initiative is backed by £1 million from the Home Office’s Hotspot Response Fund, delivered through the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC).
Philip Wilkinson, Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Making our town centres safer is not just about more patrols, it is about listening to what communities want and acting upon it.
“While the additional funding for this increased focus has come from the Government, our approach is built upon engagement and feedback from communities who have been telling me they want greater police officer visibility and for Wiltshire Police to tackle the crimes that matter to their communities.
“Policing should have input from the communities it serves, and we have listened to feedback from residents and businesses by investing in what works: visibility, partnership, and real consequences for those who cause harm.”
The initiative has been welcomed by Wiltshire Police’s Chief Constable, Catherine Roper. She stated that a focus on visibility, engagement, and accessibility was important, and described the Safer Streets Summer campaign as an initiative aimed at both crime prevention and response.
“This is more than just us being present in those areas you live and work in. We are listening to you, responding to your concerns, and we are accountable for making you feel safer,” she said.
“We will keep you updated across the summer with what we are doing in your area and how we will improve the service you receive.”
The Commissioner added: “We know crime doesn’t stop when the sun comes out – in fact, we often see more of it.
“That is why this is not just a police effort. Our partners, from councils to community groups, are all pulling together. Wiltshire Police and my office will be out at markets, festivals and events all summer, sharing safety advice and listening to what matters most to you.
“Crucially, if you see something, tell Wiltshire Police. The more they know, the better they can respond. This is a shared mission.”
