Newquay Unveils Pioneering Safe Spaces to Enhance Community Safety

Newquay’s Business Improvement District (BID) is set to enhance community safety with the launch of designated Safe Spaces throughout the town.

This launch is scheduled for 9:30 am on Tuesday, 14th May at Newquay Library.

A Community Commitment to Safety

Seventeen local businesses have committed to being part of this programme, offering immediate support to individuals who may feel vulnerable or in danger. Each location is equipped to provide assistance, ranging from making a phone call to a loved one or contacting emergency services if necessary. This programme is supported by Devon & Cornwall Police and the Boardmasters Foundation, ensuring a robust framework for community safety.

Mark Warren from Newquay BID highlighted the town’s ongoing commitment to safety, noting that this project complements an existing town-wide system that includes coordinated efforts between CCTV operations and business communications. “Newquay is fast becoming an even more welcoming and safe space,” he said.

Reducing Crime and Enhancing Night-time Security

Andrew, CEO and Founder of Boardmasters Festival, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact. “We’re delighted to extend the ground-breaking safety work from our festival site into the town itself,” he remarked. The scheme is set to roll out over the coming months, coinciding with the Boardmasters festival, enhancing safety for both residents and visitors.

Inspector Guy from Devon and Cornwall Police also praised the collaborative nature of the project. “This is an exciting development that aligns with our key priorities, including combatting violence against women and girls,” he stated.

A Whole Town Approach

Margaret, the Mayor of Newquay, shared her pride in the town’s leadership in creating a comprehensive safety strategy. “The support from CLEAR, local businesses, and the town council has been instrumental,” she explained. The library is one of the designated Safe Spaces, embodying the community’s collaborative spirit.

Becoming a Part of the Safety Network

Businesses interested in joining this community-focused project can reach out to Rachel at rachel.jones@clearsupport.net for more information. This effort is not only about providing a refuge but also about training and support, facilitated by CLEAR, a Cornish charity dedicated to aiding recovery from abuse and trauma.

Newquay’s BID initiative sets a remarkable precedent in community safety, aiming to make Newquay the first UK town to offer a comprehensive network of Safe Spaces, ensuring everyone in the community feels secure and supported at all times.