Listening to businesses in Abertillery

This week I visited Abertillery to talk to residents and business owners about community safety.

Keeping communities safe is a priority in my Police and Crime Plan and embedded throughout the work of my office.

I was pleased to hear that the severe anti-social behaviour that had taken place before the pandemic has decreased.

However, anti-social behaviour is still apparent. Business owners talked of the lack of respect for the town by young people, with groups of young people gathering and causing a nuisance.

As the evenings become longer it is only natural that young people will want to socialise, and I am assured that Gwent Police will increase their presence in towns such as Abertillery to deter any negative behaviour. I was also pleased to hear that the council’s youth service has been working with young people in the evenings.

Littering is a huge issue that frustrates business owners and residents. Gwent Police will be working in partnership with the local authority and the youth service to host a litter pick with the community to encourage people to take ownership and respect their environment.