Policing plans well underway as full re-opening of night-time economy approaches
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With the next stage of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown set to go ahead, Northamptonshire Police is sharing its plans for fighting crime and protecting people as the night-time economy (NTE) starts to properly return.
As Covid-19 restrictions continue to lift, pubs, bars, clubs and other licensed premises are preparing to fully re-open. Indoor service is set to resume from Monday, May 17, and the proposed end of all coronavirus restrictions is pencilled in for June 21.
Throughout this reopening and beyond, Northamptonshire Police will be working hard to keep revellers across the county safe, as well as taking firm action against anyone out to cause trouble.
Superintendent Adam Ward, who leads on NTE policing for the Force, said: “After so many months with pubs and venues having to stay closed, we know there will be a lot of people looking forward to a proper night out, and we’re looking forward to seeing them out having fun.
“To help keep everyone safe we’ll be reminding people of the simple steps they can take to protect themselves, and we’re also making it clear to anyone who might seek to cause trouble on a night out that our officers will be ready and waiting to stop you.”
Work around ensuring a safe return of the NTE has been underway for months, including the Force’s licencing team writing to licensees across the county to ask them to share their plans for reopening and any events they hope to hold.
The Force is also working with partner agencies to make sure venues are aware of and complying with Covid-19 regulations while they remain in force. Outdoor hospitality was allowed to reopen on April 12 and so far the response from both venues and the public has been positive.
Supt Ward said: “Venues have been working hard to stick to Covid-19 rules and people have been generally well-behaved, with most enjoying themselves responsibly and safely.
“We’re hopeful this is an indicator of things to come, but are reminding people that even when venues can serve you indoors, until at least June 21 there will still be rules in place that everyone has to stick to, and where we get reports of Covid-19 breaches, either by businesses or customers, we will continue to take action.”
Supt Ward added: “To anyone who may be thinking they will use the reopening of the NTE as an opportunity to commit any kind of crime – we will be ready and waiting to stop you.
“A bad hangover might last a day, but a criminal record may last your whole life, so please remember to behave responsibly when you’re out enjoying yourself.”
Report non-emergency crime and Covid-19 breaches by calling 101 or visit www.northants.police.uk/ro - in an emergency always call 999.