Crime's rise and the cut in police numbers to be discussed at Hartlepool meeting

Hartlepool Borough Council's audit and governance committee will be examining the issue - and looking at how the police and partner organisations can more effectively pool resources to meet demand - when it meets tomorrow.

Among those giving information at the meeting will be Barry Coppinger, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland, and Chief Superintendent Gordon Lang of Cleveland Police.

A written submission has been provided by the town’s MP Iain Wright.

Councillor Ray Martin-Wells, chairman of the committee, said: “The availability of Neighbourhood Police and PCSOs in Hartlepool is of the utmost importance and recent proposals by the Police and Crime Commissioner regarding the future allocation of PCSOs for the town raises significant concerns.

“The Committee wants to find out the current and projected crime levels in Hartlepool and assess why crime in the town has increased so significantly in comparison with other areas.

“We will also be looking at how the resources of the police and its partner organisations – including Neighbourhood Police Officers and PCSOs – are currently allocated to meet demand and we will be examining the plans for the future provision of services.

“Above all, given the massive funding challenges facing the Police and the Council and other partner organisations, it is essential that everything possible is done to ensure that all involved work together and share resources as effectively as possible.”

The meeting will be held at 2pm in Committee Room B in Civic Centre. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

For more information about the meeting contact Joan Stevens, the Council’s Scrutiny Manager, on 01429 284142 or email [email protected]