Crime falls in town centre, council says

Stuart Harratt
BBC News
Google Google street view of Victoria Street South in Grimsby town centre. There are shops on either side most in two-storey red brick buildings. In the distance is a white building and a concrete tower blockGoogle
Crime in Grimsby town centre has dropped over the last year, the council says

Crime in Grimsby town centre has dropped over the last year, North East Lincolnshire Council has said.

The authority said alcohol related anti-social behaviour has declined by 51%, compared with 2023/24.

There were also drops in the number of bike thefts and violent injuries.

Shopkeeper Paul Berry, who has run a comics and collectables shop on Victoria Street South for 28 years, said police and the council "still need to do more".

BBC / Jake Zuckerman Shopkeeper Paul Berry. He has short brown hair and is wearing a grey T-shirt. He is standing inside his shop with items on shelves and a large Dalek behind himBBC / Jake Zuckerman
Shopkeeper Paul Berry says anti-social behaviour is "still very noticeable"

"It's still very noticeable, the anti-social behaviour and stuff," he said.

"I mean the town as a whole has got quiet, so maybe that's why the numbers have dropped.

"The footfall is like way down on what it used to be."

The council claimed the fall was down to Safer Street initiatives in partnership with Humberside Police and other agencies.

There have been a number of Days of Action where penalty notices are handed out for cycling and alcohol offences and homeless sleepers are offered support, the council said.

Insp Claire Jacobs said: ''The operation has played a significant role in making Grimsby Town Centre a safer and more welcoming space.

"Through proactive policing, strong partnerships, and dedicated community engagement, we've seen a significant reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour.

"Our approach is not just about enforcement but also about education and support, ensuring that everyone feels safe and valued in this town.

"We will continue working closely with local partners to further build on this success and keep strengthening our community."

According to the council, anti-social behaviour incidents in the town centre fell from 224 in 2023/24 to 192 incidents in 2024/25.

There were 115 incidents of violence leading to injury in 2023/24 and 88 instances over the last year.

There were 16 bike thefts in 2024/25 compared with 30 in the previous year.

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