£200k plan begins to fight city anti-social issues

A £200,000 project is to begin aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour in Gloucester city centre.

The city council has approved the two-year scheme, which will involve two engagement officers providing a "visible presence" in the city centre.

It is hoped they will reduce incidents of criminal damage and alcohol-related disorder.

Councillor Rebecca Trimnell said: "It is exactly what Gloucester city centre needs, and demonstrates our dedication to working with partners to address the priorities of crime and safety."

She also stressed it would not lead to a reduction in funding to the "red jacket" city protection officers.

"This is in addition to that. And we hope they will work closely together," added Ms Trimnell.

"It is vital that we engage positively with the most vulnerable in our communities, and this project is exactly what we set out to achieve."

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Ms Trimnell told the council the main focus of the project would be improving the situations of people with "complex needs" who spend a lot of time in the city centre.

She added it could take four to six months to see progress.

Council Leader Jeremy Hilton said he was "very pleased" to see the plans go through.

"It will help resolve the problem of people drinking in the street," he said. "Hopefully after a few months we will see some improvement in the situation."

The funding will also allow council officers to support people with issues related to housing and addiction.

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