Police and partners join-up with local businesses to disrupt crime in Norton

The initiative will see officers from Stockton’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, Stockton Borough Council and representatives from Norton Business Group coming together with the aim of making the high street safe from crime. 

(From left to right: Enforcement officer at Stockton Borough Council (SBC), Sergeant Mitch Baldwin, Ruth Woodhouse from Grange Dental Practice, Councillor Norma Stephenson, Cabinet Member for Access, Communities and Community Safety, Enforcement officer at SBC)

Since the beginning of the year crime prevention advice and patrols have taken place after local businesses voiced concerns on anti-social behaviour, theft and aggressive begging taking place in the town.

The owners of the businesses – which include Grange Dental Practice – have been advised how to report criminal behaviour and who to contact for additional support services provided by the council.

To deter aggressive begging, anti-social behaviour and drinking alcohol in the High Street the council introduced a Public Space Protection Order in April 2023.

Sergeant Mitchell Baldwin, from Stockton’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We want to make Norton High Street as safe and enjoyable as possible for businesses but also for shoppers visiting the town, and residents who live here.

“Since we began working closely with business owners, we have listened to their concerns and have committed to providing them with plenty of valuable safety and security advice that will help to deter thieves and anti-social behaviour.

“To further strengthen the work we are doing, I want to take this opportunity to encourage other businesses in the town to get in touch if they would like to work with us.”

Councillor Norma Stephenson, Cabinet Member for Access, Communities and Community Safety at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: "The protection of our residents, businesses and visitors is of absolute importance and the public have a right to go about their lives free from the fear of harassment, alarm and distress. 

“We know that crime and anti-social behaviour are major concerns for residents and businesses and this initiative, combined with the existing public space protection order will help people to feel safe when they come into Norton to shop, do business or enjoy a night out.”

Ruth Woodhouse, Norton Business Group Chair and owner of Grange Dental Practice and Skin Clinic, said "Norton is a safe and well- loved Village, with a thriving community of small businesses who truly care about our customers. Whether you're popping in for a few groceries and a quick coffee, spending a leisurely day filled with hair, beauty and dental treatments, or planning a day of shopping and socialising, we'd love to see you. 

“In launching this partnership with local police and enforcement officers, Norton Business Group members send a clear message that crime and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated within our Village. We will work together to deter or prosecute anyone who seeks to threaten the peace or safety of our community.

“Over the coming months, we will be introducing a number of targeted tactical and strategic initiatives. These will help us to build more effective partnerships, strengthen physical security and embrace new crime reporting technologies. If you are a local business owner and would like to get involved, do get in touch with the Norton Business Group."