New Southampton partnership hoped to improve safety and reduce crime
Operation Predict is bringing organisations together with a main focus of tackling business crime and anti-social behaviour in the city
A partnership's been launched in Southampton with the hopes to improve safety and reduce crime in the city centre.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Southampton City Council, and GO! Southampton are joining together for the launch of Operation Predict.
Business crime and anti-social behaviour will be main priorities for the project.
Chief Inspector Charlie Ilderton, Deputy District Commander for Southampton, 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.”
The organisations say the public can expect to see: increased joint patrols, strengthened support pathways for vulnerable individuals, targeted youth engagement, and closer collaboration with local businesses.
They say regular updates will be provided to ensure transparency, maintain confidence, and demonstrate the impact of the partnership’s work.
Cllr Toqeer Kataria, Cabinet Member for Communities & Safer City for 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.”
As part of the project, the partners have pledged to work together, share information, and deliver consistent, visible action across the city centre.
Stephen Manion, Executive Director at GO! Southampton, the city’s Business Improvement District 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.”