Chatham, Folkestone, Sittingbourne, and Sheerness are the latest towns in Kent set to benefit from the “Safer Streets” program, an initiative aimed at reducing crime and antisocial behaviour while promoting community safety. The funding will also address violence against women and girls, support local businesses, establish neighbourhood watch groups, and enhance local parks.
This significant investment in crime reduction and community well-being comes as a collaborative effort between local authorities, Kent Police, and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC). The program, which will run from October 2023 to March 2025, builds upon previous successful implementations in Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham, Canterbury, Ashford, Maidstone, Gravesend, and Ramsgate.
Local residents and businesses have consistently raised concerns about safety and antisocial behaviour, prompting this initiative. Funding will support initiatives such as improved CCTV systems, enhanced safety measures at taxi ranks, and the introduction of a Safe Taxi Scheme. It will also fund outreach workers, Street Pastors, graffiti and litter removal, and efforts to address drug offences, theft, and vehicle interference.
Folkestone & Hythe – Folkestone Central Ward
- Year 1 costs: £149,458
- Year 2 costs: £186,088.04
- Total: £335,546.64
Folkestone Central Ward covers Folkestone Town Centre, Bouverie Place Shopping Centre, and the Bus Station. The area faces challenges related to the nighttime economy and neighbourhood crime. Funding will target sexual offences, stalking, harassment, violence against the person, retail crime, antisocial behaviour, drug offences, theft, and vehicle interference.
Swale – Sittingbourne and Sheerness Town Centres
- Year 1 costs: £154,413.25
- Year 2 costs: £169,325.80
- Total: £323,739.05
Swale’s focus will be on tackling antisocial behaviour, offenses related to violence against women and girls, and neighbourhood crime in Sittingbourne and Sheerness town centres. This includes improved lighting and CCTV provision, targeting areas affected by antisocial behaviour, and supporting outreach workers and Street Pastors.
Medway – Chatham Town Centre (Medway 015D)
- Year 1 costs: £118,006.45
- Year 2 costs: £166,517.20
- Total cost: £284,523.65
The bid area in Medway covers Chatham Town Centre, a key shopping area and transport hub. It has reported high levels of antisocial behavior and neighborhood crime, along with offenses associated with violence against women and girls. The program will introduce environmental improvements, additional CCTV, training for bar staff in the nighttime economy, and increased community engagement work.
The program emphasizes collaboration among local agencies and a commitment to addressing violence against women and girls, making these communities safer and more secure for all residents and businesses.
