Town centre crack down welcome – but what went wrong?

A CRACK down on troublesome premises in Warrington town centre has been welcomed by Liberal Democrats in the borough.
But they are asking why problems have been allowed to recur following an earlier scheme which, in 2009, resulted in a 16 per cent reduction in violent crime and won praise nationally.
Three premises in Bridge Street and Friar’s Gate are under review following allegations of violence, late night brawls and sex attacks.
The aim is to try and curb problems of violence, anti-social behaviour and criminal activity.
Cllr Bob Barr (pictured), the Lib Dem prospective parliamentary candidate for Warrington South said: “We need to know what has gone wrong in recent years to allow these problems to occur.
“Back in 2009 Cheshire Police initiated the ArcAngel scheme with the aim of reducing alcohol related crime and disorder. The Lib Dem led Council welcomed this and worked closely with the police and licensees. Together we came up with a 10-point crime reduction scheme to curb Bridge Street and town centre drinking and violence.
“This was a great success and a 16 per cent reduction in violent crime occurred in the first year. The scheme was nationally recognised and achieved Home Office Exemplar status. This needed to happen because Warrington was acquiring an appalling reputation for town centre problems.
“Why have the problems been allowed to recur? At a time when Warrington Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department has been highlighted for its poor performance this is especially important. On a Friday and Saturday night we know that one contributory factor to clogging up A&E is alcohol related issues.
“The Lib Dem-led Council also laid all the foundations for the massive Bridge Street redevelopment scheme which is about to get underway. We cannot let violence and disorder problems put off people who want to invest in our town.”