New Funding to Boost Policing and Safety in Newquay Night-Time Economy

New funding has been secured to boost safety in Newquay’s night-time economy, with extra police officers and new body-worn cameras set to be rolled out over the coming months.

Newquay BID, working alongside Newquay Police, has confirmed the funding has been awarded by the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Extra Police on Busy Nights

The funding will support additional policing on Friday and Saturday nights, with extra officers deployed during the busiest periods. The aim is to provide reassurance to businesses, residents and visitors while keeping the town’s streets safer at night.

The increased police presence will take place over several months and is focused on times when the night-time economy is at its busiest.

Inspector Steve Johnson from Newquay Police Station said:
“This funding allows us to provide additional targeted policing at key times, strengthening our visibility and ability to respond quickly. Being visible during these hours not only provides a deterrent to those intent on getting involved in alcohol related crime and disorder, but also provides reassurance to women and girls who have every right to move around the town safely. Working closely with Newquay BID has been instrumental in achieving this.”

Body Cameras for Businesses

Alongside the extra policing, Newquay BID has secured funding for six body-worn cameras. These will be made available to businesses where there is a higher risk of harm or anti-social behaviour, or where gathering intelligence could support police investigations.

The cameras are intended to provide clearer evidence, support prosecutions and help bring offenders to justice.

Wider Safety Measures Already in Place

Newquay BID and Newquay Police already work closely on a number of measures designed to support safety across the town.

These include Shopwatch and Pubwatch radio schemes, regular partnership meetings and the Newquay Rangers, whose hours are due to increase during the busy season and for town events. Newquay BID also operates what it describes as the best CCTV system in Cornwall, working with police to gather intelligence and protect the community, visitors and businesses.

Newquay is the first town in Cornwall to operate the Best Bar None scheme, which supports licensed premises to provide safe and well-managed environments for staff and customers.

During the summer months, Newquay BID also funds the Newquay Night Bus, helping people travel safely in and out of town at night. This has shown clear reductions in late-night crime.

Mark Warren, Newquay BID Manager, said:
“I’m extremely pleased to be working with Steve and the Newquay Police. We have a strong partnership focused on keeping Newquay safe. Alongside this new funding, we already deliver a range of initiatives including Shopwatch and Pubwatch radios, regular partnership meetings, and the Newquay Rangers, whose hours will be increasing to support the busy season and town events.

“We also operate the best CCTV system in Cornwall, working closely with the police to gather intelligence and protect our community, visitors, and businesses.”

Mark added:
“This is a really exciting project, and we’ll continue to look for additional funding while building on this strong partnership. Together, we are creating a safer Newquay that can be enjoyed by all.”