Funding boost to help keep town centre safe

Work will continue to make the town centre safer and increase footfall, thanks to new funding.

Tees Valley Combined Authority has awarded Darlington Council £520,000 of government funding to support local businesses by reducing opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour in the town centre and make visitors feel safer.

The money will be used to employ more civic enforcement officers to crackdown on those breaking the rules and the successful taxi marshals initiative will continue to help people who are queuing for a taxi late at night.

Money will also help support Number Forty, Skinnergate, the town centre safe haven for people on a Friday and Saturday night and extra support will also be made available to help anyone sleeping rough.

More Street Scene staff will keep the town centre looking clean and there will be money to refurbish street furniture.

A community safety programme manager and analyst will ensure that the new resources have a real impact  in the town centre.

It is hoped the measures will increase visitors to the town and reduce town centre crime and anti-social behaviour.

Amanda Riley, cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “This funding allows us to build on the great work already taking place around the town centre to encourage visitors and ensure everyone is safe and can have a good time.

“We have a vibrant town centre, with fantastic shops and events, and a great night time economy which is reflected in our newly renewed purple flag status. Successful projects like Number Forty and the taxi marshals help everyone feel safe and encourage people to visit and enjoy our town centre during the day and in the evening”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We want our town centres to be places where people want to spend time relaxing with family and friends – but this will only happen if they feel safe and secure.

“This funding is essential in ensuring Darlington town centre has a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere which encourages people to visit and also supports the fantastic local businesses operating across the town centre.”