Crime has reduced throughout Grimsby Town Centre over the past 24 months thanks to initiatives by Humberside Police and North East Lincolnshire Council.
Partnered by a range of organisations like NAViGO, We Are With You and Waste Investigations Support and Enforcement (WISE) officers, Op Mastery has tackled a multitude of crimes and made Grimsby Town Centre a more welcoming space.
With Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) reduced by 14%; alcohol related ASB down by 51% and all crime cut by 5% between 2023 and 2025, these organisations are creating a brighter future. In addition, violence leading to injury has reduced by 23%; bike thefts by over 45%.
Launched in April 2024, Op Mastery is a Humberside Police initiative encompassed by Safer Streets 5 which aims to reduce crime and ASB in Grimsby. The multi-agency operation aims to target the main town centre issues, the team aims to remind people of the consequences of causing problems in the area – whilst supporting and helping rough sleepers.
Funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Op Mastery outcomes are also sent to town centre business owners by the 2025 Town Centre Ambassador, so they are aware of the on-going commitment to make the area a safer place.
Jonathan Evison, Police and Crime Commissioner, said “I am delighted to have funded this project to help Grimsby Town Centre become a safer place for everyone. We want visitors and residents to feel safe using the town centre and make it a welcoming place that people want to visit. I look forward to seeing the success of this project continue.”
Brought to life through multiple Days of Action, the Police and the Council have been constantly tackling issues important to the community such as cycling in prohibited zones.
Alongside ensuring compliance with regulations, officers are committed to educating members of the public who may not be aware of certain rules, such as the prohibition of cycling in specific areas like Victoria Street.
During a Day of Action on Friday, 16 May, nearly 50 people engaged with representatives from various organisations, including Humberside Police and the Council, in Grimsby Town Centre. These conversations highlighted the importance of these regulations and how following them helps ensure safety and enhances the overall experience for everyone.
During the same Day of Action, Several people were also handed a Fixed penalty Notice (FPN) for breaching the Public Space protection Orders (PSPOs) which includes activities like cycling or consuming alcohol in a prohibited zone.
In total, six FPNs were issued by WISE officers, eight parking tickets were given out for infringements and one person was arrested for shop theft.
Working together as part of a joined approach, officers and partners were supported by CCTV operatives, who help monitor incidents across the borough through nearly 150 cameras. Their efforts play a crucial role in assisting teams on the ground as they engage with the public, address concerns, and respond to incidents.
The teams also benefited from the Tannoy system in operation along Victoria Street, which provided reminders about the rules around cycling, helping to ensure a safer and more informed environment for everyone in the town centre.
This approach has also led to more positivity in terms of arrests and further sanctions. In the same period, there has been a 40% increase in perpetrators being reprimanded for their crimes. For example, partly due to more frequent passive drugs dog patrols, 30 people have been charged, given a community resolution or other outcome in relation to drugs offences in 24/25 compared to 17 the year before.
Grimsby West Neighbourhood Inspector Claire Jacobs, leading Operation Mastery, said: ‘’The operation has played a significant role in making Grimsby Town Centre a safer and more welcoming space. Through proactive policing, strong partnerships, and dedicated community engagement, we’ve seen a significant reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour.
“Our approach is not just about enforcement but also about education and support, ensuring that everyone feels safe and valued in this town. We will continue working closely with local partners to further build on this success and keep strengthening our community.”
Remarking about the impressive work by all organisations, Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: “I am immensely proud of the work the Council and other partner organisations have carried out to help reduce crime in Grimsby Town Centre.
“As we go into a new regenerated Grimsby, it’s essential that we give the public an area they want to visit and feel safe in doing so. I firmly believe the future of Grimsby is one of positivity and cannot wait to see it thrive in the coming months and years.”
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