One Merseyside town is set to employ all new "street rangers" in a bid to tackle crime.
Southport BID has confirmed that it is looking to employ street rangers to patrol the streets of the town in a new three-month pilot scheme which would start in February 2023. It's said that they would be on hand to deal with offences such as shoplifting and anti-social behaviour to increase safety and support for people and businesses in the town centre.
The strategy would see Southport BID aim to implement a dedicated team for the town centre through a reputable security provider. The team would be an extension of the existing Southport BID team and will provide support to both the day and night-time economy.
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The role includes the responsibilities of reassuring people in the centre and being visible to members of the public as well as reacting to "low-level" incidents such as noise nuisance and forms of harassment or illegal activities such as shoplifting. The team would also act as "eyes and ears" for partners such as Merseyside Police and Sefton Council.
Rangers won't replace any policing but will provide patrols in branded uniforms and act as the face of Southport BID on the ground.
Southport BID CEO Rachel Fitzgerald said: “Over the next two years Southport BID’s aim is to build upon the strong relationships that already exist within our community; to see strategies developed and initiatives put in place and focus the necessary resources to support deterring and tackling crime.
“We want to provide reassurance to the public and give businesses the tools and support they need to thrive.”
The Ranger Service will be contracted by Southport BID with a security provider. Any firms interested in operating the service are asked to email their proposal to: rachel@southportbid.com by 30th November 2022, which needs to include: costings, a statement outlining how and why their business can deliver the service, and references from three existing clients.
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