Safer travel scheme having positive impact
A partnership project to prevent crime and antisocial behaviour on Nottingham’s tram network has been having a positive impact, keeping passengers and local residents safe.
Extra patrols were put in place as part of Operation Safenet over the weekend, including on Halloween, and further patrols will be taking place tonight to deter any Bonfire Night antisocial behaviour.
Operation Safenet launched in June and is a partnership led by Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Gary Godden, between Nottinghamshire Police and NET trams. The initiative involves officers and staff working in conjunction with the tram operator to investigate crime and coordinate wider Operation Safenet activity.
As part of Operation Safenet, patrol officers were dispatched to Clifton in response to a report of antisocial behaviour and successfully dispersed a group of youths near the Clifton Centre tram stop on Friday – with no further issues after that.
The officers then went on to patrol other areas along the line, including Ruddington Lane, Wilford, Queen’s Walk and Clifton Park and Ride, before dispersing another group setting off fireworks in The Meadows.
On Sunday, Operation Safenet patrols carried out engagement and high-visibility patrols to support NET as they carried out ticket enforcement, including issuing penalty fares. The increased patrols are also set to continue tonight.
PCC Godden said: “Since Operation Safenet was introduced in the summer, it has seen some real impact which is keeping passengers and local residents safe.
“I want people to feel safe and confident to travel on public transport here in Nottinghamshire, and this scheme shows how our unique partnership project is delivering that.”
Chief Inspector Mike Ebbins, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Our objectives for Operation Safenet are straightforward: to work hand-in-hand with NET to prevent crime and antisocial behaviour on and around the tram network, and to enhance the sense of safety for those who travel and work on the line.
“We are starting to see some real success stories from this work. As well as the hot spot patrols, Operation Safenet has had a number of successes with investigative work using CCTV and evidence gathering for crimes including theft, trespass, robbery and assault.
“This time of year can often lead to a spike in antisocial activity across the city and county, including the misuse of fireworks and large gatherings of youths, but we're committed to ensuring all tram users and the wider public around the network remain safe.”
As we move into the darker nights, the PCC and Nottinghamshire Police recognise that feelings of safety are paramount for the public and they will continue their commitment to keeping people safe, including further initiatives on transport systems. They’ll also work to prevent violence against women and girls and retail crime.
Sarah Turner, managing director of NET, said: “The darker nights can often lead to a rise in antisocial behaviour across the city, but together with the Operation Safenet initiative, we remain committed to ensuring no one has to feel unsafe when out and about in the city, especially after dark.
“The Operation Safenet officer has now been in position for three months, but it’s encouraging to see the impact the initiative has had on the wider city already.
“The coming months mark a particularly busy period for the city, with various Bonfire events across the county and the upcoming launch of Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland. Anyone who is looking to travel into the city to experience this exciting season can rest assured that we’re doing all we can to ensure their travel is safe, reliable and enjoyable.”