Private security wardens could patrol Kenilworth

[dutchman]

Private security wardens could be paid by residents or businesses to patrol a Warwickshire town as well police.


Allan Kerr, of Community Street Wardens, said the firm would offer a fast response and deal with anti-social behaviour.

For £10 a month, Community Street Wardens says it offers a response unit, a mediation service and will check properties if homeowners are away.

The firm plans to introduce wardens in Kenilworth before the end of this year.

Warwickshire Police, which is facing savings of £13m by 2014, said it would not replace uniformed officers, even though they will overlap in some areas.

'Question the need'

Insp Richard Woodcock, of Warwickshire Police, said it was a new scheme.

"I think it's very innovative and something new for Kenilworth.

"I think it's important to approach it with an open mind.

"Clearly Warwickshire Police offer a good service in the town.

"We have a low level of crime anyway and anti-social behaviour has been falling for a number of years so I do question whether there is actually a market for an additional [presence] in the town."

The firm will hold a series of events in the next few months so residents can ask any questions.