Mobile police station in Derby to stay in place for at least 10 more weeks

A mobile police station situated in Derby city centre has been given the go-ahead to remain for at least 10 more weeks.

The station, run by Derby City Centre Safer Neighbourhood Team is in response to concerns about anti-social behaviour in the area from individuals apparently under the influence of synthetic cannabinoids, which are often referred to as Spice or Black Mamba.

The extension comes after visitors to the city and local businesses have reacted positively to the station being in place on St Peters Street.

Inspector Lauren Woods, who is in charge of policing in the city centre, said:

Helen Wathall, chair of St Peters Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) and managing director of a funeral directors based in Macklin St, said she welcomed the ten-week extension and said that anti-social behaviour caused by substance abuse has been a problem for businesses, largely with the alarm caused to visitors and employees on their way to and from work. She said the uniformed presence was reassuring and confirmed the BID would continue to work support police through monitoring CCTV cameras. She also called for the introduction of a Public Space Protection Order.

Councillor Asaf Afzal, cabinet member for Neighbourhoods and Public Protection, also voiced his support for the mobile police station, saying: