New initiative to tackle crime along Old Railway Line Footpath

Suffolk Constabulary has launched Operation Brightway, a dedicated initiative aimed at reducing crime, anti-social behaviour and dangerous vehicle use along Haverhill's Old Railway Line Footpath.

The operation, run by the Haverhill Community Policing Team, has been established in response to longstanding concerns from residents, visitors and partner agencies regarding criminality and nuisance behaviour along the popular route.

The Old Railway Line Footpath is a well-used walking and cycling route that stretches across a significant part of the town. Over the years, the area has been affected by anti-social behaviour, drug-related activity, assaults, weapons offences and the dangerous use of motorcycles, e-bikes and e-scooters.

Operation Brightway will bring together police resources and partnership working to address these issues, improve public safety and make the footpath a more welcoming environment for residents and visitors. Officers will conduct regular high-visibility patrols, gather intelligence, take enforcement action where offences are identified, and work alongside local authorities and community partners to develop longer-term solutions.

Earlier this week, officers publicly launched the operation with a community clean-up involving Suffolk Police Cadets, Neighbourhood Watch volunteers, Haverhill Town Council, West Suffolk Council, local community groups and businesses. Together, they carried out a litter pick, weapon sweep and graffiti removal along sections of the footpath. We would like to thank all of those involved in improving the appearance of the footpath.

The clean-up forms part of a wider problem-solving approach, recognising that signs of neglect such as litter, graffiti and vandalism can negatively affect how safe an area feels and, if left unaddressed, can create opportunities for further anti-social behaviour and criminality. By improving the environment and encouraging community ownership of the area, partners hope to create a safer and more welcoming space for everyone.

PC Owen Smith from Haverhill CPT, who is the lead for Operation Brightway, said: "The Old Railway Line Footpath is an important community asset and should be a safe place for everyone to enjoy. We have listened to residents who have reported issues such as anti-social behaviour, drug activity and the misuse of motorcycles, e-bikes and e-scooters along the route over several years. Operation Brightway is now about taking positive action to address these concerns."

"It is important to stress that we are not advising people to avoid using the footpath, nor do we believe there is any significant risk to those who use it responsibly. The vast majority of people enjoy the route without issue. Our aim is simply to tackle the small number of individuals whose behaviour causes harm, concern and nuisance within the community"

"We are committed to reducing crime, improving safety and creating a more positive environment for those who use the footpath. I would encourage anyone who witnesses criminal or anti-social behaviour in the area to report it to us. Community intelligence plays a vital role in helping us identify offenders and direct our resources where they are needed most."

Over the coming months, the operation will see further initiatives, including environmental improvements, partnership preventative activities and community projects designed to enhance the area and discourage offending behaviour.

The public are encouraged to report non-emergency incidents via Suffolk Constabulary's website or by calling 101.

In an emergency, always dial 999.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their website.