A new street safety campaign, called Operation Assure, is being launched in Edinburgh.

It involves police, the City of Edinburgh Council, British Transport Police and parking attendants from NCP Services.

Its main objective is to prevent disorder in the city centre, making it a safe place to visit, and to reassure those living and working there.

It also sends out a strong message that offenders will be dealt with robustly, and Lothian and Borders Police say they are keen to work with  partners such as NCP Services to achieve this.

Joint agency patrols will be carried out in areas where there may be alcohol-related disorder and anti-social behaviour. There will also be patrols of buses, trains, and licensed premises to act as a reassurance to the people using them. In addition, officers in high visibility clothing will be pounding the pavements to act as a deterrent to offenders.

Inspector Andy Gilhooly said: “Thousands of tourists visit Edinburgh every year, and typically the volume of visitors peaks in the summer months.

“We welcome everyone to Edinburgh. Our priority is to make the city centre a safe place for all and deal with those who commit crime or engage in anti-social behaviour.

“Through Operation Assure we are sending a strong message to everyone that we are taking a tough stance, and any criminal activity will be dealt with robustly.

“By working with our partners, we are committed to maintaining Edinburgh's position as a desirable city in which to work, live and visit.”
Tim Cowen of NCP Services said: “Parking attendants can be very helpful as an extra set of eyes and ears, and we are delighted to be able to help this important initiative.”

Councillor Paul Edie, Community Safety Leader for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “The summer months are a very exciting and busy time for Edinburgh's residents and visitors. By working with our partners on Operation Assure, we will tackle anti-social behaviour and help ensure that everyone enjoys themselves safely.”