Taxi marshals will be on patrol at ranks in Bridgend town centre this December, in a bid to maintain orderly queues and ensure the safety of Christmas party-goers on their journeys home.
The aim of the council-funded service will be to support those leaving Bridgend’s popular night spots over the Christmas period, as well as looking out for any potentially disruptive situations taking place near ranks.
Working on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout December, two taxi marshals will be based at the taxi rank on Market Street between 11pm and 5am with another two at the rank on Derwen Road.
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Taxi marshals based at the site's will be liaising with South Wales Police, as well as working special events where crowds are expected, to oversee the taxi rank queues and make sure they remain orderly. The service has been funded by Bridgend council's ‘Safer Streets’ initiative, designed to address women’s safety, neighbourhood crime, and anti-social behaviour in the area.
Local policing inspector, Gareth Newman, said: "This is an important initiative in preventing and reducing alcohol-related problems which often lead to crime and disorder. Chaos in a taxi queue can result in anything from physical assault to a road traffic accident, if not controlled."
Neelo Farr, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "Working alongside South Wales Police, safeguarding the public is a priority. I am certain that the introduction of taxi marshals will prove to be an invaluable resource, helping us to ensure the safety of those active in Bridgend town centre during the later hours." You can read more of our stories from Bridgend here.
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