Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) will operate from Wakefield bus station three days a week thanks to a community hub there opened by Arriva.
It has been developed in collaboration with West Yorkshire Police. In addition to serving as a dedicated base for PCSOs as part of their regular presence in and around the bus station, the hub will be available to local community groups in Wakefield for meetings, engagement activity, and other events.
Launch of the facility was by Arriva UK Bus Managing Director Martijn Gilbert (pictured, centre) and Roads and Buses Minister Simon Lightwood (pictured, second from left). Mr Lightwood’s constituency is Wakefield and Rothwell. Also on hand was Arriva Area Director Richard Hoare (pictured, left).
The community hub forms part of a wider programme at Wakefield bus station that Arriva says is focused on building a welcoming environment for customers. Arriva is working with Wakefield Council to support installation of additional CCTV cameras in the interchange.
Sergeant Richard Cotton notes how the hub will support West Yorkshire Police’s work with members of the public who may need assistance when using the bus network as well as providing a base for planned engagement activity.
It will also be used to promote national awareness campaigns including Hate Crime Week and action on violence against women and girls, Sgt Cotton adds.
Mr Lightwood has welcomed the community hub and describes is as “a great example of what can be achieved when partners work together.” He continues: “I have previously heard concerns from constituents about safety in and around the station, and the hub will give people a clear, visible place to go if they need support or reassurance.
“It is encouraging to see Arriva, West Yorkshire Police and Wakefield Council taking practical steps to improve the experience for passengers and strengthen community confidence. This is exactly the kind of partnership working that helps to make our city safer, more welcoming, and better connected for everyone.”
