Whitby Residents Asked How Safe they Feel?

Friday, 27 January 2023 18:29

By Matthew Pells

North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Zoë Metcalfe and Whitby Town Council, have launched an online survey to find out how safe residents and business owners feel in the town centre after an increase in bars and nightclubs.

The survey was initiated following concerns raised with Commissioner Zoë over the number of licensed venues in the town and police visibility, prompting a need to hear what residents and the wider community have to say about the impact a growing number of alcohol-serving venues is having, particularly on an evening.

Results from the survey will be used by the Commissioner's Office, Whitby Town Council, North Yorkshire Police Licensing Department, Whitby Neighbourhood Policing Team, and Scarborough Borough Council to help them decide how licenses are granted in Whitby town centre, whilst also identifying other areas of public safety concern such as anti-social behaviour, road safety and theft.

Commissioner Metcalfe said:

"I know that there are always going to be concerns in areas with a busier night-time economy but when communities are beginning to feel unsafe, we need to look at what can be done as a solution, and I am very pleased that Whitby Town Council want to be involved in this work for their residents.

"The survey will help us to gain a better understanding of public concerns, how safe they feel, their views on policing and what they think needs to change – an opportunity also for businesses operating at night, who may need support to improve safety for staff and customers.

"If you live or work in Whitby, please take a few minutes to complete the questions and help inform this work to ensure you are safe and feeling safe."

Cllr Linda Wild, Whitby Town Council Mayor said:

"We welcome and support the Commissioner's survey and encourage the people of Whitby Town and surrounding areas to take the time to fill it out and provide their feedback. Like the Commissioner, we want to understand how local people are feeling about the growing nightlife in Whitby and any other public concerns affecting their safety."

The online survey has launched today and will run for four weeks closing at midnight on Monday 27 February 2023. To complete the survey visit: https://bit.ly/WhitbySafetySurvey