Ipswich: Funding approved for three new PSCOs in town centre

The Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) will cost a total of £283,500 over two years in a move the authority hopes will "help the public feel safe in the town centre".

The PCSOs will be based in the town centre for two years starting from April 2023.

They will operate from 8am until 6pm, seven days week.

Cllr Alasdair Ross said a permanent presence is needed in order to help people feel safe. Credit: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

Speaking prior to the decision being made, Cllr Alasdair Ross, portfolio holder for community protection and health, told this newspaper: "We've been calling for a higher police presence in the town centre and we're very pleased to see this has been stepped up recently.

"But it's still not to the level we require and we believe a permanent presence is needed in order to help people feel safe."

The project - which initially proposed two new officers - has seen the council enter into a contractual agreement with Suffolk Constabulary using money received from the government's Shared Prosperity Fund.

The proposals came after concerns over safety in Ipswich were raised following the death of 18-year-old Raymond James Quigley, who was stabbed to death in the town's high street two months ago.

Other measures taken by Ipswich Borough Council have included the recruitment of a community engagement officer and increased CCTV in key areas of the town.

"The new PCSOs will be dedicated to the high street and shopping areas," added Cllr Ross.

Raymond James Quigley was stabbed to death in January. Credit: Supplied by family/Suffolk police (Image: Suffolk Constabulary)

"We hope the PCC will continue to keep a high police presence alongside these additional officers.

"We've been calling for a greater presence and we know that's what the people want in order to feel safe. 

"That's what we're now looking to deliver."