Community Update; Halifax Town Centre

Community Update; Halifax Town Centre

Good Evening,

It was a busy and vibrant day in Halifax Town Centre, with the warm weather bringing plenty of people into town alongside the popular Emergency Services Day at The Piece Hall. It was fantastic to see so many residents, families and visitors out and about enjoying everything the town has to offer.

Neighbourhood officers were once again on foot patrol throughout the day, engaging with members of the public, businesses and partner organisations, whilst focusing on the issues that matter most to our community.

We are pleased to report that following continued police intervention, the levels of street drinking in the town centre have reduced significantly. While some individuals have moved away from the more prominent public areas, this has helped reduce the impact on shoppers, workers and visitors, making the town centre feel safer, more welcoming and less intimidating for those going about their day.

A key focus for officers today was tackling anti-social behaviour involving groups of youths in several locations across the town. Officers spoke with a number of young people who were gathering in areas where pedestrians were being forced to walk closely around them to pass. Advice was provided and groups were moved on to ensure public footpaths and spaces remained accessible and comfortable for everyone.

Additional patrols were also carried out around the Old Market area, including locations where groups of youths have previously congregated and caused concerns for local businesses and members of the public, particularly around and inside McDonald's. Officers engaged with those present, addressed behaviour causing concern and provided a visible reassurance presence throughout the area.

We know that issues such as anti-social behaviour, street drinking and intimidating gatherings can have a significant impact on how safe people feel in the town centre. Your concerns continue to shape our patrol plans, and officers will remain highly visible in key locations to tackle these issues, support local businesses and ensure Halifax remains a welcoming place for everyone to enjoy.

Thank you to everyone who stopped to speak with officers today. We will continue to listen, act on community concerns and work hard to keep Halifax town centre a safe and enjoyable place to visit.