Extra powers for shopping centre security staff

Security staff at the Broadway Shopping Centre in Bradford have been given extra powers in a police partnership.

Under the Community Safety Accreditation Scheme, they will have the right to demand suspects provide their name and address.

The chief constable of West Yorkshire Police and the deputy mayor for policing approved the licences and training for security guards at the Broadway.

Over the last few weeks, there have been joint patrols with security staff and police community support officers to provide extra reassurance in the centre.

Insp Justin Adams, head of Bradford city neighbourhood policing team, said: "We welcome the Broadway having security staff trained through the Community Safety Accreditation Scheme.

"This is a great initiative aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour by working in partnership.

"Improved information sharing between us and the shopping centre will improve people's experience coming into the city centre."

Jonathan McVicar, deputy manager from the Broadway Shopping Centre, said: "This is a great partnership which we are proud to be a part of.

"We have worked closely with the police and our team to deliver this programme which will help to further protect our customers and staff.

"This is a great way forward to ensure we remain a welcoming and family friendly shopping environment."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here.