Businesses look at beefing up (From Warrington Guardian)

Businesses look at beefing up

security

BUSINESSES in Birchwood want to beef up security in the area after a spate of break-ins.

Members of the business community's Birchwood Forum met on Friday, December 3, to look at ways of stepping up protection for businesses.

The forum's executive officer, Phillipa Sudlow, told the Warrington Guardian: "A number of businesses have experienced, over a period of time, break-ins.

"Landlords in Birchwood have recognised that if there was security across Birchwood, in addition to what they have already, things might improve."

Among the ideas under discussion at Friday's meeting was a communication network where people could pass on information and a high profile security patrol.

"We are just looking at it at the moment," continued Mrs Sudlow.

"A significant number of businesses, representing more than half the businesses in Birchwood, have met recently to consider the proposal.

"We are not saying we have a security problem in Birchwood, and we are certainly not having a problem attracting new businesses to the area.

"The idea is that we would be increasing the overall security of Birchwood and showing potential investors that Birchwood cares about its environment."

Whichever option the forum members choose will have a cost implication and will only be open to those members who pay to be part of the scheme.

The forum has not yet discussed the proposals formally with Birchwood Town Council, but the council is a member of the forum.

The proposals will be looked at in more detail at the forum's next meeting on January 10.

For more information on the Birchwood Forum, call Phillipa Sudlow on 827812.