Operation Renew results set to give 2025 a bright start in Rushden

A community policing initiative in Rushden is heading in 2025 having achieved a significant reduction in key crime types.

Operation Renew was set up to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB), criminal damage, shop theft and robbery in the town, following community concern in these areas.

In the six months since the East Northants Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) began their problem-solving work, reported incidents have reduced in all areas, most notably in criminal damage (down 79 per cent) and ASB (down 58 per cent).

East Northants NPT Sergeant Leigh Françoise Goodwin said: “We know our residents have had specific concerns about issues in Rushden, so we set about creating a tailored policing response to tackle both the causes and those responsible for these problems and crimes.

“Through measures including daily area-specific patrols, education work with local schools, and working with local businesses and partner agencies, we’ve already seen some brilliant results.

“Issues like these aren’t solved overnight but by empowering our residents to report concerns to us and working closely with our partners, Rushden is already seeing real benefits and I look forward to continuing our successes into 2025.”

Op Renew is focused on the area of Rushden within Rectory Road, Duck Street, Church Street and Skinners Hill.

Rushden residents are encouraged to share their feedback and concerns with the NPT by emailing [email protected]

Non-emergency crime reports can be made by calling 101 or online at www.northants.police.uk/RO. In an emergency, always call 999.