Rural crime survey 'will shape priorities', says Durham police commissioner

Results of a survey on rural crime in County Durham will be used to help direct resources and shape future action, a police chief has said.

Durham and Darlington's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Joy Allen, launched an initiative to gather feedback from residents, landowners, farmers and rural business owners.

The issues prioritised included fly-tipping, off-road bikes and agricultural and machinery theft as well as the need to strengthen reporting, improve police visibility and build confidence.

Allen said the findings highlighted both the challenges faced by rural communities and the strong appetite for continued investment and targeted action.

The PCC said more than £5,000 had been invested in 20 new security lights, 30 perimeter alarms, 15 covert trail cameras and 10 security cameras to deter crime and protect residents and businesses in Weardale and Consett.

The security cameras and trail cameras will be loaned out to farmers by the PCC's rural co-ordinators, while the remaining equipment will be available for Consett, Stanhope and Barnard Castle police stations to tighten security at properties vulnerable to rural crime.

In another new initiative bespoke orange stickers are being distributed to display on agricultural plant and machinery, and vehicles, which will encourage police to proactively stop and check the equipment if it is seen on the road or unattended in an unusual place.

It is modelled on similar projects in other parts of the country which have successfully driven down agricultural theft.

Allen said: "This survey provides the most detailed picture we have ever had of the concerns, experiences and priorities of our rural residents.

"Just as importantly, it gives us a clear roadmap for where we can focus our efforts to make the greatest difference.

"I will be working closely with Durham Constabulary, local authorities, farmers, businesses and residents to turn these findings into action."

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