AN INITIATIVE to reduce organised crime and improve community safety in Bournemouth town centre officially launches this weekend. 

Bournemouth Together is a project which will see targeted activity to reduce criminal behaviour such as drug offences, antisocial behaviour, violent crime and the exploitation of vulnerable people. 

Developed from the Home Office’s Clear Hold Build model, the project focusses on eliminating serious organised crime, improving confidence in the police and making the area a safer place to live and work. 

Work began in March with the ‘clear’ phase, which included officers ‘disrupting’ crime through extra patrols, arrests and warrants. 

The next stage is to ‘hold’: stabilising the town centre to stop criminals moving in on cleared areas to ensure spaces remain safe. 

Dorset’s police and crime commissioner David Sidwick said the initiative is designed to “make a real difference” to those living or working in the town centre. 

He added: “Now is the time for action but we need the support of the public to make sure these changes are permanent. 

“It is vital you report your intelligence to us. The Clear, Hold, Build initiative needs community buy-in and we are all determined to deliver meaningful long-term change for the community. 

“I am urging those who live and work in the town to contact us with information. If you want to see improvements, work with us, and help make the town centre even safer.” 

Chief inspector Darren Harris added his officers will be carrying out warrants and increased patrols in the Lower Gardens, West Cliff and Old Christchurch Road. 

He added: “Since March 2024, 49 people have been arrested and illegal drugs, vapes and tobacco products valued over £200,000 have been seized as part of the initiative. 14 adults and five children have also been safeguarded and are receiving support from partner agencies. 

“We hope that the work we’re doing in Bournemouth reassures residents that we take their reports seriously.” 

Sophie Sajic, head of public protection at BCP Council, said: “BCP Council have a vast amount of enforcement legislation to influence behavioural and environmental change within our community for the good of our town centre.” 

Bournemouth is the first place in Dorset to roll-out Clear, Hold, Build. Similar projects, based on the same model, have been rolled out across the country, and have been proven to reduce crime. 

A special launch event will take place in Bournemouth town centre from 10am on Saturday, July 13 where residents can come and speak to representatives from Dorset Police, BCP Council and the office of the PCC.