Pilot project launched in Bourne to protect businesses from crime

Launch of Business Watch, from left, back, Chamber of Commerce membership manager Justin Pover, scheme co-ordinator for the chamber, Steve Jackson, SKDC community resilience lead Mark Jones, SKDC Cabinet Member for Retail and Visitor Economy Cllr Nick Robins, middle row, James and Stephanie Romaine of Stephanies Flowers, Ann West, of Spice of Life; PCSO Graeme Parrott; Billy Eady of The Nags Head, front, Val Coddington, of Harrison and Dunn hardware shop.

Business Watch has been launched to improve security for shops, pubs and offices.

It is backed by South Kesteven District Council, police and Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber membership manager, Justin Pover, said: “Members will be able to radio in information about suspicious or antisocial activity, although if a crime is being committed they will be urged to call 999.

From left, Steve Jackson; PCSO Graeme Parrott; and Val Coddington, of Harrison and Dunn hardware shop.

“CCTV will then monitor what is happening and police and community support officers will have access to the radio system.”

For an annual membership fee of £120 businesses get access to an app-based walkie-talkie system provided by the chamber which can be accessed from any phone or tablet.

Councillor Nick Robins, responsible for retail, said: “We are supporting this financially for the first two years.

“By the third year it will become self-sufficient through uptake from traders.

From left, Steve Jackson; Stephanie Romaine of Stephanies Flowers; and PCSO Graeme Parrott.

“Once we start getting results, people will see it works and we are asking more businesses to sign up to make it better.”

“Scheme members, police and CCTV can share information with each other to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

“It is all part of our overall aim to make our towns a strong destination to live, work, study, visit and invest in, and we can achieve this through security, safety and peace of mind for visitors and businesses alike.”