Wolverhampton city centre attracts thousands of people every week to shop, work, study and enjoy leisure activities, and the council and its partners are committed to tackling the small number of individuals who cause issues.

The new officers will support enforcement of the city centre’s Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), providing a visible presence and working closely with businesses, residents and partners to address anti-social behaviour and support those who may need help.

They will carry out patrols, engaging with individuals, helping to tackle problems before they escalate, and issuing civil warnings where appropriate. They will also work closely with Wolverhampton Business Improvement District (BID), West Midlands Police, British Transport Police, the Safer Travel Team, businesses, retailers and residents to respond quickly to concerns and target hotspot locations.

The move forms part of the council's wider approach to community safety and follow the introduction of a new city centre Public Spaces Protection Order in June, which received strong public support during consultation.

Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: "We want our city centre to remain a place where people feel safe, welcome and confident to spend their time, whether they are visiting, shopping, working or enjoying everything Wolverhampton has to offer.

"The Public Spaces Protection Orders have given us additional powers to tackle a range of anti-social behaviour that can affect people's experience of the city centre, and we are already seeing positive results through our partnership work.

"The appointment of dedicated Community Safety Enforcement officers will strengthen that approach even further. Their role will not only be to take enforcement action where needed, but also to engage with people, provide reassurance to the public and help ensure those who need support are directed to the appropriate services.

"This demonstrates our commitment to listening to residents, businesses and visitors, taking their concerns seriously and working with our partners to create a city centre that is safe, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone."