Partners involved in the SafeAyr Shore initiative are pictured at Ayr beach.
The Esplanade in Ayr is a fun and safe place to be during the summer thanks to the SafeAyr Shore initiative.
Councillor Nan McFarlane, Chair of the South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership was joined by Strathclyde Police officers, councillors, community support officers and others on Ayr beach to launch the 2010 initiative.
By working in close partnership Strathclyde Police, South Ayrshire Council and other members of the Partnership will this summer aim to improve community safety and reduce antisocial behaviour in and around Ayr Esplanade. Members of the Partnership include: the Council; Strathclyde Police; Strathclyde Fire & Rescue Service; NHS Ayrshire & Arran; the Coast Guard; Ambulance Service; Ayrshire Alcohol & Drug Partnership (AADP); the Procurator Fiscal and a range of voluntary and community organisations.
Councillor Nan McFarlane, Chair of the South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership said: "The SafeAyr Shore Initiative is in its fourth year and it is making a real difference to local people and visitors to Ayr. The statistics from the summer of 2009 speak for themselves, a reduction of two thirds in reported crimes.
"Partnership working is the key to improving community safety and reducing antisocial behaviour in and around Ayr Esplanade. The dedicated way in which everyone works together is the key to the success of this initiative we are much stronger when we work together.
It is only a small number of people who get involved in antisocial behaviour, however they can make the lives of others a misery.
"This year lots of families are staying at home and having days out during their holidays, so the beach could be even busier than usual. We are determined that people will be able to visit Ayr Esplanade, enjoy the glorious weather and leave with happy memories.
"We must all work together to ensure that the small number of people who get involved in antisocial behaviour do not spoil the fun of others."
In 2009 a similar initiative achieved good results:
- Reported Crimes decreased by 67%
- 68 Fixed Penalty Tickets issued - 61 for drinking in public, 4 for breach of the peace and 3 for urinating
- Reduction of motoring related offences from 20 to 3
- 70% reduction in recorded incidents of drug misuse.
- 66% reduction in recorded incidents relating to disturbances.
Strathclyde Police officers will be making their presence felt with high visibility patrols, particularly at the weekends. Community support officers will be working in the area, there will be increased litter collections, monitoring of noise levels, and raising the public awareness of zero tolerance to antisocial behaviour.
Chief Inspector Sweeney, South Ayrshire Area Commander said: "The success of the Shore Watch Initiative has been evident, year on year and continues to be well received by our Communities and Partners alike, impacting positively on the environs of the Esplanade, creating a Safer, Pleasant and reassuring facility for all to enjoy.
"The benefits of Partnership working are clear for all to see and with the continue support from all involved we will build on the success achieved to date, targeting those individuals who commit Crime and carryout acts of Anti Social Behaviour in a robust, proactive and targeted approach."