News

Following the success of the Newport enforcement day, 'Surround The Town' returns today in Cwmbran. Gwent Police will again be working with GoSafe, Torfaen County Borough Council and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, to address poor driving and local crime priorities and to highlight local services.

'Surround the Town' will involve multiple teams across the town to help ensure that those living in, working or visiting Cwmbran can do so in a safe environment. The operation will target motoring offences and raise awareness of collision risk factors. Parking enforcement, tackling anti-social behaviour, drug offences and organised crime groups will also be a part of the enforcement initiative.

The key road safety activities are:

• Proactive stops by police on cars, targeting areas of concern around the town
• Enforcement of speeding, mobile phone, seatbelts and other road traffic offences
• Driver awareness around cyclists and road safety
• Parking enforcement
• Engagement with residents about abandoned vehicles
• Local policing priorities including; anti-social behaviour, drug use and supply and organised crime groups

Throughout the day, in Gwent Square, members of the public can engage with Gwent Police and its partners. The Crash Detectives, from Gwent’s collision investigation team will join South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, to educate visitors on the dangers relating to the Fatal 5.

Gwent Police GoSafe Co-ordinator, Sgt Jason Williams said, “’Surround the Town’ is an initiative which aims to improve the lives of all who live, work and visit Cwmbran. This event is bigger than our last event in Newport, covering more partners, local initiatives and services. We all have the right to use the roads safely and through working together as partners we hope that our messages will make a difference, making Cwmbran a safer place for everyone.

“We know that the majority of road users comply with speed limits, ensure they wear a seatbelt and do not use their mobile phones when behind the wheel. This operation is targeting the minority who do not."

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Road Traffic Reduction Station Manager, John Bolton said, "Far too many people are seriously injured and killed in road traffic collisions, so anything we can do which gets the message across about being safe, sensible and considerate of other roads users is crucial. Cwmbran town centre is a busy central location and this is a great opportunity to work in partnership by raising awareness of simple safety steps which can reduce incidents on our roads."

Craig Williams, Team Leader, Highways, Traffic and Enforcement for Torfaen County Borough Council added, “We are delighted to be able to support the 'Surround the Town' initiative. Our Joint Civil Parking and Environment Enforcement Officers will be visible in the town centre carrying out their duties to ensure it’s a safe place for pedestrians and motorists. The team have dual powers which means they can fine people for offences such as littering, and parking illegally on double yellow lines.

“We will also have a Road Safety Officer available on the day who will be handing out useful information such as how to fit car seats safely. So if you are a parent, and have road safety questions, our Road Safety Officer is looking forward to meeting you.”