Operation Predict launched to tackle crime and restore confidence in Southampton city centre
A new multi-agency initiative aimed at tackling crime, anti-social behaviour and public safety concerns in Southampton city centre has been officially launched.
Operation Predict, a partnership between Southampton City Council, Hampshire Constabulary and GO! Southampton, will focus on targeted, intelligence-led activity to make the city centre safer, more welcoming and more vibrant for residents, workers and visitors.
As part of the launch, all partners have signed the Southampton City Centre Partnership Commitment, a public pledge to work collaboratively, share information and deliver visible, coordinated action across the city centre. The commitment outlines a shared approach to improving safety, responding quickly to concerns, supporting vulnerable individuals and continually reviewing progress based on feedback and outcomes.
Members of the public can expect to see increased joint patrols, enhanced support pathways for vulnerable people, targeted youth engagement and closer working with local businesses. Regular updates will be provided to maintain transparency, build confidence and demonstrate the impact of the operation.
Operation Predict aims to address key challenges facing Southampton city centre, reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, restore public confidence and strengthen the city’s reputation as a safe and attractive destination.
Councillor Toqeer Kataria, Cabinet Member for Communities and Safer City at Southampton City Council, said:
“Op Predict demonstrates the strength of partnership working in Southampton and will help us to deliver on our City Plan priority to create a safer Southampton. By joining forces with Hampshire Constabulary and GO! Southampton, we are ensuring that our response is proactive, visible and shaped by local intelligence. This operation is an important step in restoring confidence and supporting a thriving city centre environment for all.”
Chief Inspector Charlie Ilderton of Hampshire Constabulary said the initiative represents a renewed focus on collaboration and prevention. He said:
“Operation Predict represents a renewed and united commitment to making Southampton City Centre a safer and more welcoming place for everyone.
“By working closely with our partners, we can respond more effectively to the issues that matter most from tackling persistent retail crime to supporting vulnerable individuals and engaging young people before problems escalate.
“This is a proactive, intelligence-led approach that puts community confidence at the heart of everything we do.”
GO! Southampton, which represents city centre businesses, said the operation is a positive step for retailers and visitors alike.
Stephen Manion, Executive Director at GO! Southampton, said:
“City centre businesses want Southampton to be a place where people feel safe, welcome and confident to spend time, and Operation Predict is a positive step towards that. By bringing together the police, the council and other organisations, this partnership strengthens our collective ability to tackle retail crime and anti-social behaviour while also supporting those who need help.
“As part of our commitment to Op Predict, GO! Southampton is reinstating its daytime security presence provided by third-party Argenbright Security Europe Limited. The team are on the ground seven days a week patrolling the BID area to provide additional, visible reassurance for businesses and visitors.”