Lout crackdown at bus station

A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour in and around Oldham Bus Station and the town centre begins today.

The special operation will involve Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE), Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and Oldham Council teaming up with all secondary schools and colleges in Oldham and bus operator First for the two-week initiative.
Increased patrols by police officers and GMPTE security staff will be used in a bid to reassure passengers and town-centre visitors. Truancy sweeps will be conducted as part of the operation and youth workers will also be looking to speak with youngsters.

Insp Melita Worswick, of Oldham town centre neighbourhood policing team, said: “Throughout this operation we will be gathering information on those responsible so we can target the despicable minority who insist on making life unpleasant for the majority, whether that be through exclusion orders, anti-social behaviour orders or arrests.

“We are determined to ensure that people feel safe in their communities, and that includes feeling safe on public transport which provides a vital lifeline to many members of the community.”

Councillor Jackie Stanton, deputy leader of Oldham Council, said: “The council is committed to ensuring that the town centre is a safe place for people to visit. This operation is a good example of partnership working and will help to ensure the safety of citizens using public transport.”

Mr Michael Renshaw, interim bus and rail director for GMPTE, said: “Incidents are relatively rare, but there are a handful of persistent offenders who occasionally cause problems.

“The work carried out over the next fortnight will send out a clear message — they simply will not be tolerated and action will be taken against them.”