SEAFRONT traders and hoteliers in Weymouth largely agree that Dorset Police’s ‘100 Days of Summer’ initiative has been a success.
The summer crime crackdown, which began on May 30, saw an increase in uniformed police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PSCOs) patrolling Weymouth seafront and other anti-social behaviour (ASB) hotspots.
Speaking to the Dorset Echo, businesses have largely agreed with that statement.
Hotel owner, Marion from the Beach House on Brunswick Terrace, agrees that the police crackdown on ASB and crime was a success.
She said: “I totally agree. It makes a huge difference, and our regular guests notice it and have commented on it, they can see the difference.
“We can see the difference living on the property too.”
Another seafront hotelier, who didn't wish to be named. was also pleased with how the police’s action had helped reduce the amount of bad behaviour and crime, but pointed out that it is not just up to the police to resolve the issue long term.
She said: “It was a big improvement, we didn’t see as many drinkers on the seafront, but as the 100 days have ended, we see it coming back slowly.
“Dorset Council need to be more involved and not leave it all up to the police. I’m a big supporter of the police, it is ridiculous really.”
She added that she feels the laws are not good enough and that offenders ‘basically get a slap on the wrist’ and that it is a lot of time and effort for the police to put in.
Shakeira and Kayleigh, selling ice cream out of The Prom Café, have also noticed a difference compared to last year.
Shakeira, said: “There is not as much as last year [ASB/crime], there are a lot less people doing drugs or drinking.”
Whilst her colleague Kayleigh, added: “We have seen a lot more police.”
However, not everyone was in complete agreement that the ‘100 Days of Summer’ was a success.
Sandhu, who owns a convenience store on the seafront, was asked by the Echo whether he saw an increased police presence over the summer.
He said: “No I did not. They come for homeless drinkers every now and then, but I feel pity for them they are not harassing anybody.
“We have only seen a few misbehaving.”
Sandhu was the victim of a crime himself recently after a shoplifter stole some sunglasses from his store and was not impressed by the police’s reaction time.
“When I called the police, no one turned up for 35 to 40 minutes. They just said they were busy – it’s not nice.”
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