Inverness city centre community policing team expanded

Issued by Police Scotland

Police in Inverness can confirm that the dedicated community policing team for the city centre has now been expanded.
 
The number of officers dedicated to working the city centre beat has been doubled to eight.
 
They are overseen by Inspector James Rice and Sergeant Nick Macrae, who are responsible for the daily delivery and management of police business in the area.
 
The team will work with the public, and businesses in the city centre to provide a high-visibility deterrent against crime and anti-social behaviour.
 
They will also be able to provide a quick response to any incidents which do occur.
 
Inverness area commander Chief Inspector Colin Gough said: "I am delighted that we have these additional resources to police the city centre.
 
"Our eight community beat officers along with Sergeant Macrae will provide reassurance to the law-abiding public and deter anyone intent on criminal behaviour.
 
"I would stress that this is not a short term measure, this is a sustainable solution which we feel is the best way to ensure that the centre of Inverness remains a safe place to live, to visit and to do business.
 
"Inverness is generally a very safe place and the steps we are taking with our partners will help ensure it remains that way looking into the longer term.
 
"We are looking forward to working in partnership with the public, the Highland Council, the business community and many others to continue to provide a safe and welcoming city centre."
 
Provost and Leader of Inverness and Area Councillor Helen Carmichael said: “Highland Council has a long history of partnership working with the local police in Inverness, and Inverness members welcome this long term sustainable expansion of policing in the city. 
 
"While we know that Inverness is one of the safest cities to live, work and visit, we look forward to the outcomes of the police actions in reinforcing the safety and general well-being of all.”
 
She added: “We all have a civic duty to help make Inverness a welcoming place and the council will continue to encourage residents, businesses and visitors to help improve the city centre - all of which assists the police.”
 
Inverness City Centre BID chairman Peter Strachan said “BID and the city centre businesses welcome Police Scotland’s strengthened police presence in the city centre. 
 
"I’ve already had positive feedback from a number of businesses who have really noticed the difference it’s making in reducing anti-social behaviour. 
 
"We’re continuing to work in partnership with Police Scotland, the Highland Council and other agencies to promote Inverness as a vibrant city centre and to make it safe and enjoyable for all.”