Commissioner Addresses Anti-Social Behaviour Surge in Egremont

Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, visited Egremont on Wednesday to confront the growing concerns over anti-social behaviour plaguing the town. The visit comes as residents and businesses grapple with a noticeable spike in disruptive incidents, raising alarm about the impact on the community’s quality of life.

During his time in Egremont, Mr Allen met with Councillor Sam Pollen and members of the Copeland Neighbourhood Policing Team to evaluate ongoing efforts to curb crime and disorder. He also toured Egremont Castle, engaging with the Friends of Egremont Castle, a dedicated volunteer group working to preserve the historic landmark.

In a statement, Mr Allen expressed his determination to tackle the issue head-on: “I was keen to visit Egremont given the recent surge in anti-social behaviour. It’s clear how deeply this affects residents and businesses. Decisive action is essential, and I’m encouraged by the Neighbourhood Policing Team’s proactive approach.”

Mr Allen stressed the importance of community cooperation, urging residents to report incidents to enable “targeted action” by the police. The call for vigilance reflects a broader push to restore order and ensure Egremont remains a safe place to live and work.

Councillor Sam Pollen, a member of both Cumberland Council and Egremont Town Council, welcomed the Commissioner’s visit. “Having David Allen here shows how seriously we’re taking this issue,” he said. “It’s a step toward reassuring the community that their concerns are being heard and addressed.”

Inspector Richard Massey of the Copeland Neighbourhood Policing Team outlined the police’s efforts: “Tackling anti-social behaviour is a priority in Egremont. We’re conducting regular patrols, engaging with businesses and residents, and working closely with volunteers at Egremont Castle to prevent further incidents.” He added that, where culprits have been identified, actions such as home visits and intervention programmes have been implemented to deter repeat offences.

The situation at Egremont Castle has been particularly concerning, with reports of vandalism and disorder prompting collaboration between the police and the site’s volunteers. Inspector Massey reiterated the importance of public reporting: “Every report helps us build a clearer picture and take effective action. We urge anyone affected to come forward.”The visit underscores a firm commitment to addressing Egremont’s challenges, but it also highlights the broader issue of rising anti-social behaviour across communities.