Extra government funding supports crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour
POLICE in Wrexham have launched a series of new initiatives aimed at reducing crime and increasing public confidence across the city, the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner has been told.
Andy Dunbobbin visited Wrexham on Wednesday (July 3), where he joined local officers on patrol to witness the impact of neighbourhood policing and recent crime prevention efforts. His visit coincided with the launch of the UK Government’s Safer Streets Summer Initiative, which will see increased funding and policing activity in crime hotspots across the country.
The initiative is supported by £66 million in government funding and forms part of a broader effort to enhance visibility, disrupt criminal behaviour, and rebuild trust between police and communities. It is underpinned by the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which commits to placing 13,000 additional officers, PCSOs, and special constables into frontline roles across the UK.
Crime down in key areas
During the visit, the PCC and Deputy PCC Wayne Jones joined District Inspector Rhodri Ifans at Wrexham Police Station before walking the beat through key areas of the city including the Bus Station, Hope Street, Central Arcade, and the High Street.
Inspector Ifans highlighted several successful operations now under way, including Operation Restore, which began in April and targets areas with high reports of anti-social behaviour and youth-related crime. Officers have also been working with partners to reopen and promote youth clubs as positive spaces for young people, and a dedicated PCSO is now embedded with Wrexham Youth Justice Services to support early intervention.
Shoplifting is also a major focus for the local policing team. A dedicated business crime unit—made up of one sergeant, four PCs and two PCSOs—has helped reduce recorded shoplifting by 21% over the past 12 months. Last week, a prolific offender was jailed for 36 weeks after admitting five thefts from city centre stores.
Listening to the public
Following the patrol, the PCC and Inspector Ifans held a public surgery at Wrexham Library, where residents from areas including Acrefair and Bangor-on-Dee shared concerns about local crime and anti-social behaviour.
Mr Dunbobbin said he was encouraged by what he had seen: “Wrexham is a city on the up. Whether you’re visiting, shopping, enjoying the nightlife or simply living here, people deserve to feel safe. I’m pleased to hear of the work by Inspector Ifans and his team, and the real results they are delivering.
“I’m also grateful for the additional UK Government funding through the Safer Streets Summer Initiative. It is vital that policing is properly resourced to reduce crime and support victims. These actions reflect the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan for North Wales—strong local policing, community support, and fair justice.”
A stronger police presence
Inspector Ifans added: “We are focused on addressing the concerns that matter most to people. Our team is working hard to build trust, improve visibility, and engage with local partners to tackle issues such as drug misuse, vandalism and youth disturbance.
“Through targeted patrols, early intervention and community collaboration, we’re already seeing signs of improved public confidence and a safer environment for all.”
The Safer Streets Summer Initiative runs until the end of September and will be highlighted across North Wales Police’s social media channels.
To report crime or concerns in your area, visit www.northwales.police.uk and use the LiveChat function or call 101. In an emergency, always dial 999. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
