Extra cash announced to tackle crime 'hotspots' in Wales
Wales is to receive a £1.7 million boost to tackle burglary, Home Secretary Priti Patel has said.
The move is part of a £25 million 'Safer Streets' initiative across Wales and England to increase funding available to 35 police and crime commissioners (PCCs).
Wales' PCCs were invited to bid for funding in January this year with North Wales Police, South Wales Police and Dyfed Powys Police all successful.
The funds are aimed at targeting burglary and theft in crime hotspots, the Government said.
The money will be used to fund the following:
CCTV
Improved home security
Neighbourhood Watch schemes
Street lighting
Crime prevention advice
South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Alun Michael welcomed the news, with over £500,000 of the funding to help support operations in Merthyr Tydfil.
"We have been awarded a total of £513,410 which will be invested in the installation of alley gates, improved street lighting and CCTV provision as well as new signage," he continued.
"We will also be enhancing community engagement with community clean-up days and information leafleting to residents and local businesses.”
Chief Superintendent and Commander for the Merthyr area Dorian Lloyd, echoed Mr Michaels.
“This additional funding for Merthyr Tydfil is a very welcome stimulus for the whole community," he said.
“We will continue to work with our partners in the local authority to tackle crime in the town and be able to carry out targeted patrols to tackle acquisitive crime and provide reassurance to residents and local businesses that their continued safety and well-being are at the heart of what we do.”
Ms Patel said: "The investment we are announcing today will fund measures in Wales to help make neighbourhoods safer.
"I am determined to ensure we do all we can to stop people falling victim to these crimes, and that is why I set up this fund."
Secretary of State for Wales Simon Hart said: “There are few things more important than feeling safe in your community. That is why we are announcing additional funding for our police and crime commissioners today, giving them further resources to prevent crime and help keep people safe.
“Tackling crime is a clear priority, one which the UK Government is delivering on to create safer streets for all.”