11 December 2024
A new security company will help tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the city from 1st November.
Argenbright Security Europe Limited (ASEL) has been appointed by Southampton BID as part of its commitment to safeguarding businesses from instances of anti-social behaviour and theft, maintaining a secure and enjoyable city centre environment for all, especially city centre workers.
Jade McCauley, Operations Manager for GO! Southampton, said: “GO! Southampton works closely with partners and local businesses to help prevent and reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
“Our focus in deterring crime both during the day, supporting retailers and our thriving hospitality businesses, and then into the evening and supporting night-time economy. This work is facilitated through our award-winning Southampton Business Crime Partnership, which launched in 2020.
“As well as our BID member businesses, we work with organisations including Southampton City Council, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) , the Street Pastors , together with private firms like ASEL to make sure the city is a safe place for everyone.”
The SBCP’s approach has already proved successful: Southampton has been recognised for its safe and vibrant night time economy, as the city has been accredited Purple Flag Status for the past two years. Purple Flag, which is similar to the Blue Flag for beaches, aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm to 5am.
“Like everywhere else, though, the city centre is still facing issues with rough sleeping, crime and anti-social behaviour which affect the people who live and work in the city as well as visitors,” said Jade. “All partners are working together to help tackle these issues, and ASEL’s appointment will help reinforce our efforts with a fresh approach.”
Peter Fisher, Director of Risk and Intelligence at Argenbright Security, said: “We are delighted to be working with the BID to support the SBCP’s work in keeping Southampton safe. As part of the Argenbright Holdings Group, founded in 1979, we have decades of experience in security services across Europe and the USA.
“We pride ourselves on deploying highly trained security officers in the right place, at the right time and in the right role to provide the most effective security coverage.”