Pilot Aims to Reduce Crime in Llanelli Community

Pilot Aims to Reduce Crime in Llanelli Community 

Police in Llanelli are piloting a project they hope will prevent crime and help residents feel safer.

Dyfed-Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire Service and Carmarthenshire County Council are working together on the initiative, which aims to prevent burglaries and reduce antisocial behaviour in the Granby Close area of the town.

On Thursday the 21st and Friday the 22nd of February, the agencies will be in the area making improvements and offering free, practical crime prevention measures and help to those who live there.

PC Dave White of Dyfed-Powys Police said:  

“Being a victim of crime or antisocial behaviour can be very distressing. While we are here to help people deal with the fallout, we don’t want anyone to go through it at all. That is why we are looking at ways of preventing crime and antisocial behaviour in the first place.

“There are a few phases to the operation. We will start with marking items that are attractive to thieves, which helps us trace stolen property and the person who stole it, and installing door alarms.

“Local people will soon notice stencils appearing on pavements and walls in the area – that is to warn thieves we have carried out this operation. Known criminals will also be contacted directly to alert them.

“We will then be working with second-hand shops in the local area, helping staff spot stolen items and checking their stock.

“We hope the work will help bring a community feel back to the area while reducing crime and antisocial behaviour.”

Charlotte Leonard, Safe Well and Independent Living Project Co-ordinator, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: 

“As part of this multi-agency initiative, the Safe Well and Independent Living team (SWAIL) will be undertaking home safety visits within the locality. During these home safety visits, we will be offering tailored fire safety and crime prevention advice.

“We will be particularly focusing on online scamming and door-step fraud; offering door chains to residents in an attempt to protect them from undesirables entering their homes. To arrange a home safety visit, please call us on 0800 169 1234.”

Steve Richards, Arson Reduction Manager of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“We will be working alongside Dyfed-Powys Police and Carmarthenshire County Council to offer advice to the community on how to reduce nuisance fires in the area.

“A multi-agency approach, along with the support of the public, is essential to tackle issues within communities, as it shares resources and offers the best service possible.”

Carmarthenshire County Council will be supplying a skip for residents and carrying out repairs to improve the environment for those who live there. Part of this involves improvements to lighting in the area and replacing or repairing locks or defective doors to make premises more secure.