A new community safety project in Exeter will help tackle the city’s anti-social behaviour problems and make it a safer place for residents and visitors.
The deputy leader of the city council said at the launch of the new Community Safety Charter that the new project proved that the local authority took the problems seriously.
Extra CCTV cameras are part of the project.
The charter brings together a number of Exeter organisations to commit to keeping the city safe, inclusive and welcoming for all.
As well as the city council, partners include Devon and Cornwall Police, InExeter, St Petrock’s, CoLab, Exeter Cathedral, University of Exeter, Exeter College and Exeter Business Against Crime.
Recent figures showed crime falling in the city centre, with recorded incidents down 11 per cent, anti-social behaviour down 21 per cent and shoplifting down 28 per cent.
Deputy city council leader Cllr Laura Wright (Lab, St Thomas) said: “Exeter is a very safe and welcoming city, but people often highlight anti-social behaviour as a concern, and this is something we take very seriously. We’ve listened to the concerns and are acting on them.
“The city council and its partners have instigated important and effective projects to improve how people feel about safety in the city.
“These include increasing the number of CCTV cameras and staffing within the control room, launching a jointly funded community safety team for the city centre, continuing the use of our Public Spaces Protection Order and introducing the yellow ‘Need Help’ signs.
“The charter is a real commitment by key partners to continuing working to make sure we can quickly deal with any issues and focus on solutions. Exeter is a fantastic place to be at this time of year, day and night, and we are working hard with our partners to ensure that it stays that way.”
The initiative has been welcomed by city business organisation InExeter, whose chief executive Nicola Wheeler said: “Safety sits at the heart of any successful city centre, and Exeter has long held a strong reputation as a safe, welcoming place for businesses, their staff, customers, students and visitors.
“Being able to come into the city centre, feel confident, and go about daily business is the lifeblood of Exeter’s economy and its sense of place.
“Exeter is far from alone in facing challenges around anti-social behaviour. But what we can feel genuinely proud of is the collective effort, the commitment shown by partners, and the positive difference this is making for our city.”
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