Published on Sunday 18 August 2024
Councillor Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, said: “I would like to thank council staff, officers at Dorset Police and other partner agencies for the incredible work to keep people safe whilst we enabled the protests to take place.
“Alongside the police our teams were well prepared for all eventualities, and I am pleased we were able to support the police efforts by putting additional CCTV in place and extra CSAS officers on the ground. Through the youth outreach team our staff engaged with young people to offer support. Our teams proactively engaged with the local business community to offer advice and reassurance.
“Just like any other weekend so many people have been able to enjoy our beaches, gardens and town centre. With the warm weather set to continue for the next few days, residents and visitors can expect to enjoy all that our town has to offer.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their community and I am conscious that some will understandably remain concerned after these protests. We will continue to engage with our faith, community and business leaders to provide further support and reassurance.
“We remain immensely proud of the diverse and vibrant communities that help make Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole such a special place and we are deeply committed to making sure that BCP remains a sanctuary for all those who call our three towns home.”
This update also features in Dorset Police's news release, available to view here.