Shirley businesses report huge improvement following Commissioner’s intervention to tackle crime

Weeks after pledging tough action on crime in Shirley, local business owners have told the Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones there has been a significant drop in crime and anti-social behaviour since she took control.

Before the intervention, many shopkeepers and traders in Shirley spoke of suffering repeated theft, abuse, and intimidation that left them going to work in fear.

This week at a progress meeting with the Commissioner, Council and police, business owners shared how they can now open their doors each day with greater confidence and peace of mind, thanks to increased police presence and targeted measures.

One business owner said: “The last few months were incredibly tough, we were constantly looking over our shoulders. Now, things feel different. We’ve noticed a real reduction in incidents, and it feels like progress is finally being made. Shirley is a much better place since the Commissioner become involved.”

Police confirmed that both crime and anti-social behaviour affecting businesses have dropped sharply in recent weeks, supported by more officers on patrol in the area.

The Commissioner also addressed ongoing concerns from businesses about the risk of problems returning. She reassured them that long-term solutions are being put in place to prevent crime from escalating again. These include:

• A bid submitted by Southampton City Council to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for permanent CCTV in Shirley.
• Security guards to be deployed to work alongside the police.
• Continued investment in youth outreach programmes to tackle the root causes of offending.

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones said: “People have the right to visit Shirley High Street without the fear of crime. The progress we’ve made in Shirley shows what can be achieved when the police, council, businesses and my office all work together.

“I want to thank local businesses for their patience and resilience.

“My priority now is to make sure these improvements are not temporary, I will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure crime does not creep back in.”

Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council and Ward Councillor for Shirley, added: “This is a turning point for Shirley. The recent improvements have made a real difference to shoppers, workers, and the wider community. People feel safer, and businesses are telling us things feel back to normal. But we know this progress must be sustained. We’re committed to working with the Commissioner, the police, and local partners to make sure Shirley remains a welcoming and vibrant place for everyone.”

Businesses are encouraged to remain vigilant and, if they ever feel incidents are starting to escalate, to contact the Commissioner directly for support via opcc@hampshire.police.uk

As part of the police’s investigation, a 14-year-old girl from Southampton has been charged with two counts of assault, one of criminal damage, one of arson and one of breaching a section 35 dispersal order direction.

She will appear at Southampton Magistrates Court on September 15.