Overhaul of community safety agreed by council

East Ayrshire Council has agreed a major overhaul of how community safety and enforcement services are delivered, following a wide-ranging review that highlighted the need for a more proactive and joined-up approach.

- KEVIN DYSON

East Ayrshire Council has agreed a major overhaul of how community safety and enforcement services are delivered, following a wide-ranging review that highlighted the need for a more proactive and joined-up approach.

A new Community Safety and Engagement Team will be created, alongside changes to enforcement services covering antisocial behaviour, environmental crime and public safety.

The review, led by Depute Chief Executive Richard Grieveson, found that while the council responds effectively once incidents occur, there is an opportunity to intervene earlier and make better use of existing resources.

The report concluded that services are currently too reactive and that communities would benefit from increased engagement, visibility and prevention work.

Under the agreed plans, a 13-strong Community Safety and Engagement Team will be established from June 2026.

The team will work directly with local communities, youth organisations and community groups to build relationships, identify emerging problems and reduce the risk of antisocial behaviour escalating.

The focus will be on prevention and early intervention rather than enforcement alone.