Angel Islington BID’s Business Crime Manager Gerry Morgan (pictured above with Parkguard officers) gives an insight into the addition of the new Parkguard service. Crime prevention patrolling has changed in the Angel. What's the new arrangement and why? The new arrangement in Angel introduces Parkguard to complement the existing BID Crime Team and local police. Parkguard brings in specialist patrolling services to ensure more targeted and visible crime prevention. This change aims to provide a stronger security presence, focusing on both high-traffic areas and quieter locations that might otherwise go unnoticed. By incorporating Parkguard, the patrols will be more responsive and adaptable to local crime patterns and community needs, enhancing overall safety in Angel. How will it work? Parkguard is a professional, specialised security service that works with local councils, police, and community teams to provide enhanced patrolling and crime prevention. In Angel, their role will be to carry out regular patrols in coordination with the BID Crime Team and local police. They will focus on deterring antisocial behaviour, petty crime, and any activity that threatens the safety of the area. Parkguard officers will operate closely with the BID Crime Team by sharing intelligence, responding to incidents, and assisting with interventions. Collaboration with the police ensures that they can act swiftly in situations that require law enforcement involvement. Does the Angel have dedicated Parkguard officers? Yes, the Angel has a dedicated team of Parkguard officers. These officers will remain consistent, so they will become familiar with the area, the local businesses, and the community. This stability will foster stronger relationships with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders, allowing for more efficient and proactive crime prevention. The exact numbers assigned will be based on the needs of the area, ensuring sufficient coverage. What are their times of operation? They will patrol during peak hours of activity as well as times identified as high-risk for crime or antisocial behaviour. The exact times of operation will be flexible, adapting to specific events, seasonal changes, and intelligence from the BID Crime Team. Patrols will likely cover both day and evening shifts, ensuring a visible presence during key times when businesses are open and footfall is high. Will members still get regular visits from the BID crime team? Yes! The introduction of Parkguard enhances, rather than replaces, the services provided by the BID Crime Team. Members will still have direct contact with the BID team for crime prevention advice, support, and assistance in addressing specific security concerns. Parkguard's role will complement these efforts by providing additional street-level patrols and immediate responses to incidents. Any cost implications for BID members? There are no direct cost implications for members. The introduction of Parkguard has been arranged through the BID's operational budget and is intended to enhance the services already provided without additional financial burdens on local businesses. The goal is to improve safety and security while maintaining the same cost structure for members. What difference has Parkguard made so far? There has been a noticeable improvement in visibility and deterrence. Businesses have reported feeling reassured by the increased presence of patrolling officers, and there has been a decrease in incidents of antisocial behaviour in some hotspots. The Parkguard team has worked closely with the BID Crime Team and police to identify and address specific challenges. Over time, we expect Parkguard to make a significant difference by proactively preventing crime, responding quickly to incidents, and building stronger relationships with local stakeholders. The addition of Parkguard officers has already started creating a safer, more secure environment for both businesses and visitors. For any questions about Parkguard or for crime prevention advice, contact the BID’s Business Crime Manager Gerry Morgan at Gerry@angelislington.london.