Crime commissioner hears 'concerns' over illegal encampments and policing in Worksop

MP for Bassetlaw, Brendan Clarke-Smith, raised the issues at a meeting of all the county’s MPs convened by commissioner Caroline Henry earlier this month.

The commissioner outlined her ‘listening approach’ and committed to reflect issues raised by MPs in a police and crime plan to be published for the county in November.

Ms Henry also presented to MPs an overview of the work she has set about since taking office in May.

She said: “I’m hugely encouraged by the response to my vision for Nottinghamshire and the support it has already attracted from our colleagues in Parliament.

“I promised to be a listening commissioner and that is exactly what I will be.

“My priorities revolve around delivering the changes local people want and need and I will not be afraid to challenge decisions which are not in their best interests.

“A major listening exercise is underway to help me understand every facet of local life so I can build my plans for improvement.

“I cannot emphasise enough how important it is local people continue to tell me what they think.

“My door is always open – to MPs, individuals and fellow safety leads – to get Nottinghamshire where it needs to be.”

Nottinghamshire Police’s Chief Constable Craig Guildford outlined success achieved by the force, and the meeting also discussed new officers promised by the Government and funding opportunities such as the Home Office Safe Streets programme.

Mr Clarke-Smith said: “It was good to meet with our new police and crime commissioner for Nottinghamshire and discuss with her the struggles that face our towns.

“In particular, I was pleased to raise the strong concerns of constituents regarding the policing of Worksop town centre and the response to illegal encampments.

“I look forward to working with the commissioner and Nottinghamshire Police to ensure that we see increased police numbers on the beat and ensure that residents feel safe not only in their own homes but also on our streets.”

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