Partners will work together to keep people safe on Sefton’s coast this summer

Partner agencies across Merseyside will join forces to keep people safe from crime and anti-social behaviour across Sefton’s coastline this summer.

A joint initiative will aim to tackle crime, anti-social behaviour and deliberate fires on beaches, National Trust areas as well as Sites of Special Scientific Interest over the spring and summer months.

Partners including Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, Merseyside Police, Sefton Council, The National Trust, Sefton’s Coast and Countryside Rangers, RNLI lifeguards, British Transport Police and Natural England, along with councillors and parish councillors, will work together to keep people safe.

The scheme will also focus on keeping residents and visitors safe from fires along the coastline and protecting wildlife from deliberate fires.

Inspector for West Sefton Formby, Ainsdale and Hightown, Jim Atherton, said: “As in previous years, we all look forward to welcoming those who come to the coastline, respect the environment and the local community.

“We will continue to work closely with all our partners to identify any potential trouble-makers and deal with them accordingly.

“Can I remind visitors to check travel information, especially in relation to the National Trust site in Formby, as parking is very limited and fills up very early with good weather and during weekends and school holidays.

“There are lots of new parking restrictions in place in the nearby residential areas. I would hate visitors to have a good day out spoiled by a parking ticket or, worse still, their vehicle being removed if it is causing an obstruction.”

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Arson Officer, Graham Morgan, said: “We will be working closely with Merseyside Police and other agencies to prevent dangerous fires on Sefton’s coast, which can potentially cost lives or damage sensitive natural habitats.

“We are urging people to act responsibly on the beaches and near woodland areas to prevent fires occurring.”

T/Superintendent Dawn McNally from Sefton Command Team added: “We work alongside partners to take part in this initiative every year to prevent crime and disorder along the coast, while encouraging people to enjoy the beach and park areas safely.

“Our priority is to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time and that the beaches stay clean and trouble-free.”

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