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Harrogate businesses log 57 town-centre incidents in eight weeks

Business Crime Officer, Paul Evans, with a local business owner.

More than 50 incidents have been reported through a new safety scheme for businesses in Harrogate town centre.

Harrogate BID’s ShopSafe system recorded 57 incidents between 3rd July and 26th August — its first eight weeks of operation.

More than 12 businesses have used the platform, with participation said to be increasing each week.

Most reports have related to anti-social behaviour, while criminal damage, theft and other incidents have also been recorded.

ShopSafe allows businesses to share real-time information about incidents affecting the town centre.

The system is intended to help businesses identify recurring problems, warn one another and work with Harrogate BID and the police.

Information gathered through the scheme could also help build the evidence needed to secure additional policing and support for the town centre.

Harrogate BID said:

“Thank you to every business that has reported an incident so far — your input is already making a real difference to how we understand and respond to issues across the town centre.”

Businesses that have not yet joined the scheme are being encouraged to contact Harrogate BID for access.

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