Winchester – Managing Crowded Places

In a bid to reduce the risks associated with terrorism, Chief Inspector Claire Taylor has advised that Hampshire and Thames Valley Constabularies have agreed that high visible patrols by officers who have been tasked with ‘denying, detecting and deterring’ risk should be deployed in crowded places, iconic bridges and night economies.

As a result and over the next 3 months there will be daily foot patrols by both armed and unarmed officers. These will be at random times and effective from today.

There is no information or intelligence of any planned attack in Winchester but the national threat level remains at severe so it is considered that this is a proportionate response, which will be reviewed frequently.

Officers patrolling the City have been briefed to engage with the public to reassure them that there is no direct threat, and as council officers we can also help put out the same message if we are asked.

However, it is also important to take this opportunity to remind everyone that they should remain vigilant and report any concerns immediately via 999 or 101.

For information, please contact Sandra Tuddenham, Head of Community Safety & Neighbourhood Services.

Tel: 01962 848132 Email:studdenham@winchester.gov.uk