Nexus has joined with the police and other partners to launch a new multi-agency hub to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour at South Shields Transport Interchange. The South Tyneside Engagement and Partnership (STEP) team will be based there in response to community concerns about anti-social behaviour and crime in and around the transport interchange.
STEP comprises partners from Northumbria Police, South Tyneside Council and Nexus along with cooperation from local bus operators. The location of the hub will ensure officers and transport staff maintain a visible presence and are best placed to respond to any issues or concerns as they arise.
Chief Superintendent Darren Adams, Northumbria Police’s Anti-Social Behaviour lead, said: “We are committed to protecting our communities and ensuring our efforts are focused where they’re needed most. We have listened to community feedback and understand the transport interchange can attract unwanted behaviour from a select number of individuals.
“That is why, together with partners, we have launched the STEP Team to tackle this issue head-on and help ensure our area remains a welcoming place for all. The new team will build on the close partnership working already taking place to tackle anti-social behaviour in South Shields town centre.”
Erika Allen, Quality, Health, Safety, Security and Environment (QHSSE) Director at Nexus, said: “South Shields Transport Interchange is a key regional gateway and we are determined to keep it safe and secure for the public.
“This new joint South Tyneside Engagement and Partnership will ensure there is a much more frequent and visible presence at the interchange, which is something customers have asked for. We always work closely with the police and the local authority to deal with any issues of anti-social behaviour that may arise.”