Leigh’s Parsonage Retail Park has become the focus of an intensive police crackdown after being identified as a hotspot for theft, violence and abuse against shop workers.

Greater Manchester Police launched the operation last year following a surge in retail crime, deploying high-visibility patrols, plain-clothes officers and monthly partnership meetings with retailers, security firms and support services. The initiative has already yielded Criminal Behaviour Orders against known offenders while officers work undercover with store security to catch shoplifters in the act.

During this week’s anti-social behaviour action week, officers are targeting drug use, graffiti and groups harassing shoppers. Stores have redesigned layouts and installed new cameras to make their premises less attractive to thieves, while police offer support services to offenders before taking enforcement action.

“Our local Leigh neighbourhood team has delivered excellent results engaging with stores to create effective, long-term solutions,” Inspector Sam Davies said. “Business crime including shoplifting and ASB are not minor crimes - they are real, serious problems that can make people’s lives miserable.”

The crackdown comes as figures reveal only 6% of retail crime is reported nationally, despite being one of police’s highest repeat demands. Crime Reduction Coordinator Sue Andrew said the intensive weeks of action should provide a catalyst for longer-term problem solving through partnership working with retailers and support services.

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