The people of Bedford Borough are deeply concerned about what’s happening in our Town Centres and villages. Shoplifting, antisocial behaviour, and violent crime have become pressing issues.
Over the past year and a half, I have listened to residents from across the Borough share their worries about safety and their hesitance to report crime, often feeling that outcomes are not as effective as they hope.
Many have expressed a loss of confidence in the ability of our police forces to address these challenges.
Read: Three-quarters of Bedfordshire women feel unsafe after dark poll reveals
As Mayor, I share these concerns and am committed to working constructively with our Police and Crime Commissioner and Chief Constable.
My role is to represent the interests of Bedford Borough residents, and I strive to support our police while also advocating for improvements where needed.
The Council has taken steps to assist, such as providing free office space in the bus station to encourage a greater police presence in the town centre and collaborating closely with local businesses.
Our Council-funded CCTV teams and community safety partners continue to support law enforcement.
Ultimately, these are complex issues that require dedicated policing solutions. I understand the difficulties caused by the underfunding of police forces nationwide, and, like many councils, we continue to do our best despite financial constraints.
Police and Crime Commissioners
It is clear that the current model of police oversight has faced challenges in delivering the outcomes our community expects.
The Government is considering new approaches to oversight, and I am committed to ensuring that Bedford Borough’s voice is heard, so our taxpayers receive the resources they need.
Read: Bedfordshire PCC role to be scrapped in national shake-up of policing
I will continue to advocate for more police patrols in our Town Centres, along the A6, and in other areas where issues arise, as well as for effective action against antisocial behaviour. Bedford Borough residents and businesses deserve a police presence they can trust and see.
If you have been affected by crime, please continue to report it. If you feel your concerns are not being addressed, I will continue to raise these issues with senior officers and partners so we can keep pushing for the visible policing our community deserves.
This is a monthly guest column provided by elected
Mayor Tom Wootton (Conservative). It is published unedited and
does not reflect the views of the Bedford Independent.
