A SIX month trial relocation of a taxi rank in Catterick Garrison has been hailed a success in reducing night-time disorder in the town.

left to right - George Pearson, Lynda MacDougall and John
Jamieson

Police had identified the area outside the pubs in Shute Road as a hotspot for alcohol related disorder, particularly as people left at closing time.

Working with the District Council's licensing team and Richmondshire Community Safety Partnership, taxi drivers took steps to help alleviate the bottle-neck caused by people waiting for a lift home at the end of the night.

"We were happy to look at any option that would reduce the risk of violence in the area", explains George Pearson, Chairman of the Richmond Independent Taxi Owners Association.

"At certain times it's a very busy place in the Garrison, and we want to do everything we can to minimise the risk of any incident which could harm one of our drivers or ruin a good night out for a member of the public."

Drivers voluntarily moved their rank away from the immediate vicinity of the pubs, down the road to the Londis store, as well as introducing a one way circuit for drivers. In addition, the bus stop at the nearby Aldi store was used as an overspill alternative rank.

We were happy to look at any option that would reduce the risk of violence in the
area

George Pearson - Richmond Independent Taxi Owners Association

"This trial has resulted in a positive impact on incidents in the area", says Lynda MacDougall, Community Partnership Co-ordinator.

"Tackling violence is a key theme in our Crime Reduction Strategy, and the changes to the existing taxi system have led to a reduction in alcohol related incidents. I'd like to thank the drivers for making such a valuable contribution."

A permanent relocation of the taxi rank, and the continued use of the bus stop as an overspill site is now planned.

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