Police in Spalding are continuing their efforts to combat anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the town centre, following a large public survey that highlighted ongoing concerns from residents.

In recent months, South Holland Neighbourhood Policing teams have implemented a series of measures to address ASB, including regular patrols, multi-agency days of action, and targeted interventions for persistent offenders. Several Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) have been applied for and granted, and officers have worked closely with property management companies and homelessness reduction services. A dispersal order was also authorised during the Spalding Christmas lights event to ensure public safety.

Public Concerns Highlighted in ASB Survey

A survey, conducted by Inspector Matt Dickinson, gathered 291 responses from residents regarding ASB within Spalding’s Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) area. The results highlighted that:

• Many respondents have witnessed ASB in public places within the PSPO area.
• The majority of respondents would not report ASB, citing a lack of confidence that action would be taken.
• Lincolnshire Police received a rating of 2.11 out of 5 in terms of response to ASB, with feedback suggesting that resource limitations, rather than a lack of trust in officers, were a key concern.

The findings will be presented to the South Holland District Council (SHDC) full council members in the coming weeks to emphasise the importance of collaboration in tackling ASB and crime. Plans are also in place to establish a public forum for community engagement and to trial online live discussions to address concerns directly with residents.

Mapping a Strategy for Action

Lincolnshire Police are now working on a strategy to address the concerns raised in the survey. This includes encouraging correct reporting of ASB to ensure accurate data is available for future policing priorities. Plans will also be presented to the town board for further discussion and action.

Ongoing Policing Efforts in Holbeach, The Suttons, and Rural Areas

Neighbourhood policing teams in Holbeach and East Rural, as well as The Suttons, will continue their regular patrols and monitoring of incidents over the next three months. Residents are urged to report all incidents directly to the police, as this helps to build an evidence base for future policing priorities.

Efforts to prevent and reassure residents about burglary-related crimes are also ongoing. The force has utilised digital sign vans to share crime prevention messages, ordered new crime prevention leaflets for local residents, and engaged with social housing providers for additional support. These initiatives will continue as part of the force’s routine activities.

Encouraging Public Engagement

As part of the wider policing strategy, South Holland officers are reinforcing the importance of correct ASB reporting. Meetings with SHDC will be held to ensure effective responses, and additional efforts will be made to strengthen communication between police, local authorities, and the community.

Residents concerned about ASB or crime in their area are encouraged to report incidents directly to Lincolnshire Police via 101 or online at the Lincolnshire Police website.