Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw made a significant visit to Nelson Town Hall recently, where a productive dialogue took place regarding the pressing priorities for Pendle. This meeting came at a crucial time, as local councillors and community leaders voiced their concerns about a range of issues that have been affecting the safety and wellbeing of residents in the area. Among the topics discussed were anti-social behaviour, speeding, general crime, and organized drug crime — issues that have been at the forefront of community discussions.
Councillor Asjad Mahmood, the Leader of Pendle Council, expressed his appreciation for Mr. Grunshaw’s visit, stating, “We were delighted to welcome Clive to Pendle to discuss the action being taken to keep our towns safe.” His comments underscore the importance of collaboration between local government and policing agencies to maintain public safety. Councillor Mahmood emphasized that the meeting was not only an opportunity for the council to highlight ongoing issues but also a chance to understand how these issues are being addressed by law enforcement.
As the meeting unfolded, councillors elaborated on their concerns surrounding anti-social behaviour, with many residents reporting incidents that have made them feel unsafe in their own neighborhoods. Speeding has been another critical issue, particularly in residential areas where families with children live. Organised drug crime, too, has been highlighted as a significant concern, with local authorities noting its ramifications for community health and safety.
In response, Mr. Grunshaw noted the importance of developing a strong neighbourhood policing strategy that enhances visibility and engagement between police officers and residents. A robust community policing model can foster trust, encourage cooperation, and ultimately help combat the issues that have been plaguing the area. “We also raised the importance of improved neighbourhood policing with better visibility and engagement with residents,” Councillor Mahmood stated, emphasizing the need for officers to be present and accessible to the community they serve.
An exciting development that emerged from the discussions was the announcement of a new state-of-the-art police station in Pendle. Mr. Grunshaw highlighted that this facility will provide officers with the modern resources they need to tackle the myriad challenges posed by contemporary policing, which has evolved significantly over the years. The new police station is designed to be more than just a base of operations; it will serve as a community hub, fostering better relations between the police and local residents.
Reflecting on the rationale for these improvements, Mr. Grunshaw remarked, “In my role as the public’s voice in policing, it is important that I meet with council leaders across the county to ensure we are working together to effectively deal with the crime and policing issues that matter most to residents.” This statement underscores his commitment to accountability and transparency in policing efforts.
Mr. Grunshaw also recognized the community’s demand for more officers on the streets, emphasizing that this increased visibility is crucial for tackling crime and anti-social behaviour. He indicated that the new Police and Crime Plan for Lancashire is designed to respond directly to these community needs and expectations. The essence of this plan is to create a safer environment for residents, with the aim of not just reducing crime rates but also rebuilding community trust in law enforcement.
In terms of practical measures, Mr. Grunshaw assured attendees at the meeting that he is determined to hold the chief constable accountable for maintaining strong community policing standards. He stated, “I will hold the chief constable to account for strong community policing and for upholding standards within the constabulary through regular accountability meetings and tough scrutiny.” Such vigilance is essential for ensuring that local policing aligns with the needs and preferences expressed by the community.
Additionally, the Commissioner discussed the importance of the new police station as part of a broader investment strategy in policing infrastructure across Lancashire. The new facility not only aims to enhance operational effectiveness but also to provide an accessible service to residents with a public front counter, reinforcing his commitment to maintaining police services that are readily available to the community.
Councillor David Whipp, Deputy Leader and Chair of Pendle Community Safety Partnership, also voiced strong sentiments during the meeting, advocating for the restoration of local police officers. He articulated a vision for Pendle as a desirable place to live, work, study, and visit, highlighting that this vision can only be realized through collaboration with the police and various agencies. Councillor Whipp stated, “We want Pendle to be a great place to live, work, study and visit so it’s important we do all we can by working in partnership with the police and other agencies.” This collaborative approach emphasizes a shared responsibility among various stakeholders to create a safe and inviting community for all.
The discussions at Nelson Town Hall have generated a framework to address these pressing issues, and both the police and local government are setting a course for actionable changes. Local residents have made their voices heard, and their representatives are actively seeking solutions. The need for visible policing, adaptive strategies to combat crime, and community engagement has never been more evident.
As the plans for the new police station progress, there is a sense of optimism within the community. The investment in modern facilities coupled with the commitment from leadership to enhance policing effectiveness is seen as a promising step in the right direction. As the local authorities and Mr. Grunshaw work in tandem, the community hopes to see tangible outcomes that address the challenges they face, reassured by the promise of a comprehensive response to crime and disorder.
Mr. Grunshaw concluded by reaffirming his dedication to facilitating strong partnerships between the police and the community, aiming for a collaborative approach that empowers residents. “It’s an exciting time for Pendle, with work on the new station underway,” he remarked, highlighting the potential positive transformation on the horizon. As these initiatives take shape, the true test will be their implementation and the resultant impact on the lives of Pendle residents.
Ultimately, as the dialogue between local leaders and law enforcement continues, the aim remains clear: to establish a safe and thriving community where residents feel secure and connected. The visit to Nelson Town Hall represents just one step in a larger journey toward achieving that goal, but it is a step that has laid the groundwork for meaningful change. The collaboration, transparency, and commitment to community have resonated strongly, and there is widespread hope that Pendle will soon realize its vision of safety and community cohesion.