Council welcomes 'ASB Wardens' back to the City Centre

Salisbury City Council say they are 'pleased' to announce the return of anti-social behaviour (ASB) wardens to the city. They claim the uniformed wardens will "help to enhance community safety in high-footfall areas".

The initiative, which launched last month, saw two uniformed wardens - supplied by private company AEC Protection - on foot patrol to monitor hotspots, deter anti-social behaviour and report incidents.

The initiative is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office and will run until end of March 2026.

Cllr Sam Charleston, Leader of Salisbury City Council, said, “We’re pleased to welcome back ASB wardens to our city. While this year they’re provided by a new partner organisation, their important role remains the same: to help reduce anti-social behaviour and keep our city centre safe, welcoming and enjoyable for all residents and visitors.”

Philip Wilkinson, Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, adds: “I am acutely aware of the issues highlighted to me by our residents which either make them feel uncomfortable or put them off going to Salisbury city centre, which is why tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) and using the ASB hotspot funding my office has obtained from central government effectively, takes a high priority in my police and crime plan.

“The anti-social behaviour wardens provide a visible and reassuring presence for our residents, as they can diffuse and resolve the problems surrounding the use of e-bikes and e-scooters, shoplifting and mobile phone and bag theft, before they escalate.

“Through working with our partners, we will build on the vital work of the ASB wardens and police officers. It’s not just about enforcement — we are committed to tackling the root causes of ASB and delivering real solutions, such as detached youth work and out-of-court resolutions.”

The wardens will be connected via the CityWatch radio system, which enables real-time communication between city businesses, CCTV operators, and the police control room, strengthening partnership working to help identify and prevent crime in the city centre.

This comes after the success of the previous initiative which ran from July 1st 2024 to March 31st 2025. Without providing figures, the city council claims that the initiative resulted in "a reduction in anti-social behaviour and enhanced safety in the city centre".  The two ASB wardens, provided at that time by Venture Security, recorded a total of 554 incidents spanning issues such as drunkenness, public disorder, and theft.

Arnold Catterall, Centre Manager at Old George Mall, added, “We’re pleased to welcome the return of the ASB wardens – an important part of maintaining a welcoming, vibrant environment across our historic city. Their presence supports Salisbury’s continued success as a safe, thriving city for everyone.”

Members of the public can report 'anti-social behaviour' to Wiltshire Council via email at asb@wiltshire.gov.uk or the police on 101 or online at www.wiltshire.police.uk.