Nine people have been arrested since West Midlands Police launched a joint operation to crack down on crime and anti-social behaviour in Birmingham's Cathedral Square, commonly known as Pigeon Park. The operation began on August 24 following concerns raised by the local community.
Neighbourhood officers are working alongside representatives from Birmingham City Council and local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to improve safety in the square and the surrounding streets, including Temple Row and Colmore Row. The initiative combines prevention and enforcement, with an increased police presence in the area.
Arrests and stop and searches since launch
Since the operation started last week, officers have made nine arrests for a "variety of offences" and carried out "several stop and searches". The force has also enforced the city centre Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which gives officers additional powers to tackle persistent anti-social behaviour.
West Midlands Police Inspector Andrew Lavanchy said: "Our message is clear. Anti-social behaviour in the park, or anywhere in Birmingham, will not be tolerated.
"We know the impact that anti-social behaviour can have on businesses, visitors, and commuters who use the square on a regular basis. That’s why we’re working so closely with our partners and colleagues to take direct action."
Focus on commuter hours and community concerns
The operation follows complaints from local businesses, residents, and visitors about anti-social behaviour in the square. Last week, patrols were concentrated on the early mornings, when the square is busy with commuters travelling through the city centre.
A force spokesperson said: "Our teams have been focussing their efforts on the square - known as Pigeon Park - and surrounding areas including Temple Row and Colmore Row after listening to concerns from local businesses, residents and visitors to the area.
"With a focus last week on the early mornings, when the square is busy with commuters, our increased patrols directly targeted those causing anti-social behaviour, whilst providing a reassuring high-visibility presence for those passing through."
Partnership approach and public support
Inspector Lavanchy stressed the importance of partnership working, adding: "This operation is about prevention and enforcement, and with an increased presence in the area, we are listening to the concerns of the city centre community and acting appropriately to deal with them.
"Everyone should feel safe when walking through our city, and we continue to work really hard to make it as welcoming as possible."
The force spokesperson also thanked the public for their help: "We’re grateful to everyone who has passed information on – which allows us to target those patrols effectively. So far, we have made nine arrests for a variety of offences, carried out several stop and searches, and enforced the city centre Public Space Protection Order."
The operation remains ongoing, with officers continuing to patrol the square and surrounding areas to address community concerns and maintain safety for all who use the city centre.
