Keeping Cheltenham town centre safe this summer

The initiative, which launched at the end of June, is part of a wider campaign happening across Gloucestershire. It focuses on tackling anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and crime in the town centre — issues that often increase during the summer months.

In Cheltenham, the plan includes:

• Extra patrols in the town centre and other identified hotspots
• Use of fines and enforcement powers to deal with anti-social behaviour
• Support for local businesses and shopworkers
• Joint work with schools, health services and community groups

The campaign brings together partners including Cheltenham Borough Council, Gloucestershire Constabulary, Cheltenham BID, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), and a wide range of local organisations — including businesses, community groups, and support services.

Cllr Victoria Atherstone, cabinet member for safety and communities, said: “I am so pleased there will be extra patrols and enforcement efforts this summer in the town centre and in other identified hotspots. We have all witnessed the increase in graffiti tagging that is an illegal enviro-crime blighting our communities, illegal e-bikes speeding sometimes even past cars on residential streets and the littering of abandoned Voi e-scooters, not to mention the unacceptable antisocial behaviour of some riders.

“Tackling male violence, intimidation, and abuse against women and girls—particularly in the evening and night-time economy (ENTE)—remains a key priority. I’m pleased to report that we’ve significantly stepped up our collective efforts in recent years, thanks to the strong collaboration between our partners and local businesses. These additional patrols are another important step, helping to proactively identify loitering and intimidating behaviour and ensuring everyone feels safe and welcome in our town centre.”

Cllr Izaac Tailford, cabinet member for economic development, wellbeing, culture and the public realm, added: “It’s really important that residents, visitors and workers alike feel as safe as possible in our town centre. This initiative should help towards that goal, ensuring our town centre remains welcoming and people feel able to make the most of what’s on offer. Not only is this good for all of us personally, but it will help support businesses and the local economy during challenging times.”

Francesca Inman, chief executive of Cheltenham BID, said: “As the collective voice of Cheltenham’s town centre businesses, we’re pleased to be working closely with our partners on this initiative. A safe and welcoming environment is vital for our businesses, shoppers, and visitors. This joined-up approach helps reassure business owners and their teams that anti-social behaviour and shoplifting are being taken seriously, especially during the busy summer months.”

Chief Inspector Marcus Forbes-George from Gloucestershire Constabulary said: “We know that anti-social behaviour (ASB) does increase during the summer months.

“The Safer Streets Summer Initiative is a fantastic example of the ongoing partnership work between the police and other agencies across the county who work tirelessly to tackle ASB.

“By drawing on the strong partnerships which already exist, we will do all we can to ensure that those who live, work and visit Cheltenham can enjoy a safe and pleasant environment."

For media enquiries, contact: communications, telephone 01242 264231, email [email protected].

Notes:

This work will continue until the end of September and is part of the wider Safer Streets Summer initiative being delivered throughout the county.