Wiltshire Police lead community response to ASB in Trowbridge with PCC support
Residents, businesses and councillors in Trowbridge were able to raise their concerns to Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson, local police officers and Wiltshire Council’s anti-social behaviour officers, at a specially held event arranged by the neighbourhood policing team in the town centre today.
Issues surrounding anti-social behaviour and street drinking were discussed, following a number of reports in the town centre.
The walkabout, which started in Fore Street and made its way through the Shires shopping centre and through Trowbridge Park, is part of a wider programme of engagement aimed at tackling community safety concerns.
The Police and Crime Commissioner spoke to local business owners, shoppers and local councillors, in the days after a national newspaper article reported the town’s shopping area was becoming like a ‘ghetto’.
Philip Wilkinson said:“Events like today are essential in strengthening the direct link between our communities and the agencies working to keep them safe.
“Hearing concerns first-hand and discussing solutions openly is central to the purpose of my office—and a cornerstone of our Safer Streets Summer campaign.
“The Neighbourhood Policing Team in Trowbridge has taken active steps to address anti-social behaviour, and today’s engagement builds on that momentum. The comprehensive plan in place isn’t just about enforcement—it’s about tackling the underlying causes of disruption and making sustainable improvements.”
Police and council teams continue to meet regularly to discuss joint approaches to ASB, including early intervention work with youth services and outreach support for individuals involved in street-based behaviour.
The engagement aligns with Wiltshire’s participation in the Safer Streets Summer campaign, which runs until September 2025. The campaign supports visible patrols, the deployment of technology such as CCTV, and the provision of safe spaces and outreach services to reduce ASB and related harms.
Charities supported by the OPCC—such as Turning Point, DHI, Julian House and The Nelson Trust—deliver specialist drug and alcohol services locally through Connect Wiltshire, who were also part of today’s event.
Trowbridge Neighbourhood Inspector Ho Tsang said:
“While overall crime levels in Trowbridge remain stable, today’s engagement highlights the persistent concerns around anti-social behaviour in the town centre.
“Tackling issues like street drinking and youth-related disorder requires a joined-up response, and while we were there, we were able to talk to the town council about simple measures they could take to reduce ASB.
“We also encountered some of the street drinkers, and a worker from Connect was able to speak to them about the services they provide to help them.
“This shows that alongside our regular hotspot patrols, the use of enhanced CCTV, and plans for a Public Space Protection Order, it’s important that different agencies utilise their strengths to deal with specific issues.
“That said, none of this works without public support.
“We rely on residents and businesses to report anti-social behaviour and crime as it happens. That information helps us act to swiftly and direct resources where they’re most needed.”
Mr Wilkinson continued:
“Success depends on genuine partnership: with the council, our charity partners, and most importantly, with the public.
“The proposed Public Space Protection Order will provide greater flexibility in how ASB is tackled, and continued community involvement is vital in making Trowbridge a town where people feel safe and supported.”
