Dedicated police team for Preston City Centre

Lancashire Constabulary have increased the number of officers who will take responsibility for local policing in Preston city centre.

In July the police responded to 130 reports of anti-social behaviour, 68 accounts of violence and sexual offences, 51 cases of shoplifting and 27 reports of criminal damage and arson.

The new, extended team will consist of three Police Community Support Officers, two Police Constables and one Police Sergeant.

Local policing teams are groups of officers dedicated to serving the community. Teams are made up of officers based in the area, supported by additional officers from the wider area. 

Teams work closely with local authorities, organisations, partners and residents to decide policing priorities. This helps teams find long-term solutions to local problems. 

Inspector Dave Byrne, from Preston’s Local Policing team, said: “We are committed to working closely with our partners and the local community to make sure that Preston City Centre is a safe and enjoyable place to visit, work and live.”

Operation Centurion is Lancashire Police’s response to tackling anti-social behaviour. It is backed by Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden and £2m of extra funding secured from the Government’s new Anti-social Behaviour Action Plan.