On Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th May, Blackpool Town Centre BID partnered with Blackpool Council’s Protection Team, Neighbourhood Police, and the Task Force to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the town centre.
The operation aimed to create a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone. Officers carried out high-visibility patrols focused on aggressive street drinking, anti-social behaviour (ASB), and the illegal use of e-bikes. The operation resulted in 12 arrests, with six Community Protection Warnings (CPWs) issued by council officers.
This joint effort reflects a continued focus on making the town centre a safe and enjoyable place for residents, visitors, and businesses.
Businesses can help protect themselves and contribute to a safer Blackpool by joining the Pubwatch or Shopwatch schemes, both coordinated by Blackpool Town Centre BID. These initiatives offer practical tools, real-time communication, and strong local partnerships to reduce crime and ASB in both the day and night-time economies.
The Blackpool & Fylde Pubwatch scheme has over 180 hospitality members working with the police, Blackpool Council, Fylde Borough Council, and other partners. Members share information and take joint action to ban individuals involved in violence or disorder, helping to maintain safer venues.
The scheme also supports Ask Angela, Green Dot Bystander, spiking awareness campaigns, and conflict management training, and has helped install defibrillators in several venues. A shared radio system provides real-time support.
This scheme is open to businesses such as takeaways and taxi firms, and is supported by the Blackpool Community Safety Partnership.
Shopwatch connects over 60 retailers via a dedicated radio network, linking them directly with each other, the police, and the town centre CCTV control room.
This improves response times, reduces shoplifting and ASB, and enhances staff safety. Members benefit from shared intelligence and coordinated support. The scheme is open to national retailers, independents, and charity shops for a small fee.
By getting involved, businesses not only protect their own premises but also help to a safer, more secure Blackpool for everyone.
To find out more or join Pubwatch or Shopwatch, contact the Blackpool BID team at admin@blackpoolbid.org