Crime-tackling hub opens at transport interchange

A hub aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour has officially opened at a busy transport interchange.

The South Tyneside engagement and partnership (STEP) team - comprised of Northumbria Police, South Tyneside Council and Nexus staff - is based at South Shields interchange.

The team said it was created in response to concerns about anti-social behaviour and crime in and around the interchange, and hoped the increased visibility would act as a deterrent.

Locals welcomed the move, with some saying they had avoided the area at night due to large groups causing trouble.

Concerns around the interchange have been raised for years.

Brenda Peterson said people sitting around drinking alcohol or using foul language was a "very big problem".

Malcolm Horn added: "I'm a big bloke and I won't come down on the night time, I won't venture out because of what it has been like."

Dorothy Spence praised the hub saying: "At least then we know there's somebody here that can get here quick."

Ch Supt Darren Adams said: "We have listened to community feedback and understand the transport interchange can attract unwanted behaviour from a select number of individuals.

"I want this to be a clear message to anyone considering becoming involved in anti-social behaviour in South Shields town centre that it will not be tolerated."

The STEP team had already been operating in the town over the summer, with Nexus security manager David Eagleton saying it had seen a "drop" in anti-social behaviour since.

The hub is based in the former Nexus Travel Centre.

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