Newbury Town Centre

The Parkway and Northbrook Street areas have experienced ongoing challenges relating to shoplifting and public disorder, with intelligence identifying several repeat offenders and locations linked to recurring incidents.

Retail crime remains a key priority for the Newbury Neighbourhood Team. Through targeted patrols, effective intelligence-led activity, and close collaboration with retailers and security partners, officers have continued to identify, disrupt and apprehend those responsible for shop theft. Over the past ten weeks, this work has resulted in 39 arrests and 75 charges, demonstrating a sustained commitment to protecting local businesses and supporting the town centre economy.

Victoria Park has been the focus of targeted patrols following reports of anti-social behaviour affecting visitors and local residents. Concerns raised have included nuisance behaviour, conduct causing alarm or distress, excessive noise, and potential substance misuse. Through proactive patrols, officers are working to prevent further issues, enhance public confidence, and identify opportunities for early intervention and safeguarding.

Maintaining a strong presence within the community remains a key priority for the Neighbourhood Policing Team. Through targeted patrols in areas of concern and at times when incidents are more likely to occur, officers work to prevent crime, reassure the public, and build a detailed understanding of local issues. This approach has been complemented by high-visibility patrols from Thames Valley Police's Mounted Unit, which operated in Victoria Park throughout the summer to increase engagement with the public and discourage criminal activity.

Concerns have been raised about riders using e-bikes and e-scooters in a manner that causes nuisance and presents a danger to others in Market Place, Northbrook Street and Parkway, particularly during periods of high pedestrian footfall.

Addressing the illegal use of e-scooters continues to be a priority for the Neighbourhood Policing Team. Working collaboratively with partner organisations, officers have carried out enhanced patrols in Newbury town centre, targeting areas where concerns around unlawful electric bikes and scooters have been identified. These efforts have been supported by officers from Thames Valley Police's Mounted Unit, whose patrols through the town over the summer have strengthened our visible presence and engagement with the community.