How Lancashire Police's new radio link could change the fight against retail crime in St Annes town centre
A new radio network linking shops directly with police has been launched in St Annes in a move aimed at tackling crime and anti-social behaviour.
The Town Link ShopSafe Radio System went live on Wednesday, January 7, creating a real-time communication network between local retailers, town centre staff and Lancashire Police officers.
Police say the system will allow businesses to quickly share information about suspicious behaviour or incidents as they happen, helping officers respond faster and deter offending before it escalates.
How the ShopSafe system works
The radio scheme connects participating businesses across St Annes directly to Fylde’s neighbourhood policing team, improving coordination and awareness across the town centre.
Officers say the approach is designed to reduce shoplifting and anti-social behaviour while boosting confidence among traders, residents and visitors.
Sergeant Adam Robinson, from Fylde Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The ShopSafe Radio System is a fantastic example of how partnership working can make a real difference.
“By improving communication between businesses and our officers, we can respond quickly to incidents, prevent crime, and create a safer environment for everyone.”
Free 12-month trial for businesses
The system is being trialled for 12 months, with businesses receiving access free of charge thanks to funding from Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw and the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LANPAC).
After the trial period, businesses will be able to subscribe to remain on the network. So far, ten businesses in St Annes have already signed up.
LANPAC manager Al Yusuf said the scheme reflected a wider commitment to crime prevention across Lancashire, adding that better communication between retailers and police was key to building safer, more resilient town centres.
Wider crackdown on retail crime
Mr Grunshaw said the investment formed part of wider work to tackle retail crime and anti-social behaviour, alongside Operation Vulture and plans for a new Safer Lancashire Business Partnership, due to launch in the coming months.
“By working together with businesses and partners, we can make our town centres safer, more secure and welcoming for everyone,” he said.
The initiative has also been backed by Fylde Council, with councillors welcoming the opportunity for businesses to trial the system at no cost.
Councillor Chris Dixon, lead member for social wellbeing, said the project showed a commitment to supporting local businesses while helping St Annes remain a thriving destination.
The ShopSafe launch forms part of the national Winter of Action initiative, which sees police and partners working together to tackle retail crime, street crime, anti-social behaviour and offences linked to the night-time economy.