Small shops in Basildon are set to benefit from Government cash to help improve security, it was revealed today.

The town is set to get more than £27,000 to help dozens of shops under the Security for Small Retailers Scheme to pay for improved security measures such as burglar alarms and better locks.

It will also pay for environmental improvements to make shopping parades look better and feel safer.

Shops are vital to the health of the community and provide essential services. If they become vulnerable to crime they risk closing, putting the community on a downward spiral.

The grant means the Basildon Community Safety Partnership can push ahead with ambitious plans in shopping areas in Church Road,/Whitmore Way, Church Road/Clayhill Road, Stacey's Corner/Timberlog Lane and March View Court/London Road, Vange.

Basildon police Insp Vic Wallace on behalf of the Partnership drew up the bid for more Government support after detailed consultation with shopkeepers.

Published Monday, June 23, 2003

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