NEW COMMUNITY SAFETY WARDENS BEGIN PATROLS

In a new service targeting anti-social behaviour, Community Safety Wardens have begun patrolling in the Ards.

The boost in resources has come via Ards Community Safety Partnership which is funding the wardens as a supplement to the work of Ards Borough Council's anti-social behaviour team, and will mean two additional members of staff with an additional vehicle helping to identify local priorities and target anti-social behaviour hot spots.

Strengthening the team of people available to detect, deter and minimise anti-social behaviour is all about making a difference on the ground, according to Councillor Jim Fletcher of the Community Safety Partnership:

"Feedback from local people who have reported incidents to the existing Anti-Social Behaviour Team indicates that in 80% of cases they experienced an improvement in the situation. More visible patrols not only act as deterrents to those who might engage in anti-social behaviour, but they also help to build public confidence and make local people feel that bit safer," said Councillor Fletcher. "Increasing the resources in this area will not eradicate anti-social behaviour, but it will help minimise the negative effects and so impact positively on the quality of life in local communities".

The Community Safety Wardens service is being provided by Select Management and Security Limited until March 2012 when it will be evaluated by the Partnership.

To report an anti-social behaviour issue, contact the Ards Anti-Social Behaviour Team, Tel: 028 9182 4044.