Agenda item

To consider the performance of Blackpool’s Community Safety Partnership in relation to delivery, with an emphasis on headline data and performance indicators

Ms Jennifer Clayton, Head of Public Protection, presented the Community Safety Partnership (CSP) Year End Performance Report. The report showed the work undertaken by the CSP and the levels of crime and disorder experienced across Blackpool in 2023/2024. This included details of work in respect of Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), where all but three areas of Blackpool had seen a reduction in levels experienced, with Ms Clayton confirming that the increases experienced in the three areas were being investigated. In order to ensure that the CSP was able to effectively respond to issues being experienced within Blackpool a review of the working groups, within the CSP, would be undertaken during 2024.

A significant area of concern highlighted in the report was in relation to illegal and illicit tobacco and vapes. Ms Clayton informed the Committee that work was being undertaken to identify the sellers of these items and remove them from sale. Examples of items seized as part of this work were presented at the meeting.

The overall data presented and what it represented was discussed, with Members highlighting that some of the information presented gave a poor impression of the levels of crime and disorder within Blackpool, which the Committee did not believe accurately reflected actual situation. Superintendent James Black, Lancashire constabulary, explained that the data, in the case of ASB, represented reports received. Therefore the numbers could include multiple reporting of the same incident. Further challenges were also presented by Blackpool’s transitory population, although it was noted that if a crime was committed within Blackpool it remained a local issue even if the perpetrator had left the area. He added that it was a challenge to understand the context behind the figures and that close working between partners within the CSP allowed the better sharing of information and analysis of the challenges faced. The Committee noted the explanations given and emphasised the importance of providing context with crime data to ensure that it could be understood in context.

Ms Lisa Arnold, Assistant Director for Community and Environmental Services (Community and Wellbeing), also advised that  the data represented needed to be understood in context. The data received played an important part in allowing the CSP to target finite resources into the areas of greatest need.

The Committee asked that it be noted that it had commenced an ASB Scrutiny Review, where Members had asked that an overview of ASB in Blackpool be provided. Ms Arnold stated that this information would assist in the identification of areas of concern and help Members gain a better understanding of the levels of ASB experienced within Blackpool and determination of the focus of the review.

The risk of criminal acts relocating in response to increased CSP work in a specific area was discussed. Superintendent Black explained that the CSP was aware of such challenges but that an intelligence led approach allowed for better anticipation of where certain crimes might occur and therefore allow resources to be targeted to prevent it.

Members highlighted the progress of the upgrade to CCTV infrastructure within Blackpool and the operation of the new control centre and asked that data be provided on the impact of the changes made.

The Committee agreed:

1.                  That the report be noted; and

2.                  That data on the impact of the new CCTV Control Centre and related infrastructure be provided to Members of the Committee in writing following the meeting.