Proactive Foot Patrols tackling ASB🥬🚙🚓

Manchester City Centre Neighbourhood Beat Officers from the Commercial and Castlefield areas have recently been carrying out joint proactive foot patrols, focusing on reducing anti‑social behaviour in some of the city centre’s busiest and most valued green spaces. These patrols have been intentionally centred around Castlefield Bowl, Cathedral Gardens, Parsonage Gardens, St Ann’s Square and Lincoln Square, where large numbers of residents, workers and visitors spend time throughout the day.

Thanks to continued visibility and previous partnership work, these locations have already seen a welcome reduction in anti‑social behaviour. However, officers have still encountered several incidents requiring stop searches under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Where drugs have been found and the individual involved is a first‑time offender, officers have issued an out‑of‑court Community Resolution and seized the substances. For those who have already received such a resolution in the past, further action has been taken, including summonses to court.

Officers have also been responding to concerns raised by residents and local businesses about anti‑social driving, particularly around the Commercial area. Several vehicles have been stopped as part of this work. Two of these, both displaying foreign registration plates, were seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act after officers identified relevant offences, and the drivers have been reported accordingly.

This work will continue as part of our commitment to keeping the City Centre's shared spaces safe, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone. We rely on the community’s support to help us target the issues that matter most. If you witness anti‑social behaviour or have concerns, please continue to report incidents via 101 or Live Chat. Always use 999 in an emergency or when a crime is in progress.

Kind regards,

PC 5738 GREGORY and PC 18956 RIAZ