Renewed commitments to stamp out Chester city crime and anti-social behaviour

Chester BID, CRAG (Chester Residents Associations Group) and Pubwatch met with John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, to tour the city and see first-hand what can be done to fight crime and anti-social behaviour.

Chester has faced unique challenges with crime and continued anti-social behaviour throughout the city centre, which has been detrimental to property, businesses and community life. The city partners are determined to work together to effect change.

Carl Critchlow, BID manager, said: "The new PCC is aware of the unique challenges Chester faces, both as a result of its nature and location, and has reassured us he is determined to help improve the situation.

"Like all major towns and cities, Chester has issues associated with crime and ASB but we are committed to work with the PCC and Police to eradicate the problem, protect our businesses and support the visitor economy."

The three main stakeholders are working to offer support to the newly elected PCC in tackling crime and ASB, whilst calling for a higher profile police presence in the city.

Mike Hogg, Chair of CRAG, said: "Residents are committed to working in partnership with CWaC, Cheshire Police, BID, Pubwatch and the voluntary sector in order to make Chester a better place for everyone. We therefore welcome the positive initiative that John Dwyer as PCC has taken to walk the city’s streets with us in order to understand the problems at first hand."

John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, said: "I’m grateful to members from Chester BID, CRAG and Pubwatch for showing me first-hand the issues that they and residents are facing in Chester city centre.

"Following productive discussions with the team, as well as local PCSOs afterwards, I am confident that by working together we can prevent and tackle crime, protect residents and businesses in the city centre, and make Chester an even safer place to live and visit.”