THE success of four Gwent Police operations in tackling crimes like drug misuse, antisocial behaviour and prostitution is slowly changing the perception of Pill, according to the force.

In January, Gwent Police issued a confidence survey to residents with regard to tackling key issues in the area of Newport. Together with its partner organisations, officers working on the operations have helped to restore confidence in the police.

Operation Gravitas was set up to proactively combat onstreet drug dealing with officers placed on dedicated roles to target those who actively profit from other people’s misery.

Officers worked tirelessly to ensure these turned into charges and that justifiable sentences were handed down by the courts.

Operation Jewels, the largest drug operation in Gwent’s history, also saw many local offenders put behind bars for significant periods.

Operation Absorb and Operation Pathway were created to aid the development of diversionary pathway for sex workers operating in the area.

The partnership also obtained a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which was introduced in July this year which gave officers more power to tackle behaviours that concern local residents.

The PSPO and targeted action aims to prevent crime and antisocial behaviour such as street drinking, intimidating gangs, drug misuse, prostitution, violence and criminal damage. A follow-up survey carried out in October provided clear evidence of the achievements of everyone involved.

Since January, the number of those who said they were confident in policing has increased alongside an appreciation of the service provided.

Local East LPA Commander Matthew Williams said: “I wanted us to be proactive and to change the perception of Pill, which I’m sure you’ve heard or seen in the press.

“Collectively, with our partners we wanted to improve the quality of life for those in Pill and ensure the local community had confidence in us to not only listen to their needs but provide them with reassurance and results.

“We have had great support from the community, colleagues across the force, the Police and Crime Commissioner and from a number of key partners. We have worked with the community, not ‘done to’ the community, which has had a significant and positive impact. The desire from everyone to deliver a high standard of service came shining through and the results from the survey only evidence this.

It hasn’t gone unnoticed and I thank everyone for their efforts.

I know together we can continue this good work and ensure the future remains a bright one.”

Cllr Debbie Wilcox, Newport City Council’s leader and the One Newport chairwoman, said: “All members of the Public Services Board recognised the issues that were being faced in Pill and made a considerable commitment to tackle the causes.

“I am extremely pleased to see that one year on from the launch of our action plan, real progress has been made and most importantly, the feedback from local people is that things are improving.

“A major element was the implementation of a public space protection order.” She said this provided support for the police to address prevalent forms of anti-social behaviour including street drinking, intimidating behaviour and gangs. “But just as key have been the efforts of all partners to get local residents and businesses engaged and to put them right at the heart of this journey.

“From working with community leaders, engagement with young people and carrying out community clear-ups, people have come together for the benefit of Pill.”

She said the PSB will continue to work with local people to identify the issues most important to them.