Clear Hold Build

North Wales Police is rolling out a multi-agency partnership tactic called Clear, Hold, Build, designed by the Home Office to regenerate areas most affected by serious and organised crime.

The three-phase initiative uses a combination of targeted high-visibility police operations and covert policing tactics alongside activity and support from partners, and input from residents to protect our communities and prevent organised crime groups from operating.

What?

The strategy sees police pursue gang members using all available powers and tactics to clear an area; continue activity to hold the location, so another gang can’t take control in the vacuum; and then work with residents and partners to build the community into a more prosperous area where people would love to live, work and visit and one less susceptible to being exploited by organised crime groups and County Lines.

Where?

The first area we are rolling out the initiative is in Rhyl West, and will be known locally as RENEW.

When?

This is a long-term project and work will be continuous.

Why?

Implementing this holistic approach will make it more difficult for organised crime groups to operate. It will disrupt their activity and their incomes, and will help to protect those living, visiting and working in Rhyl West. It will also assist those vulnerable to manipulation by gangs. By working together and listening to residents’ needs, RENEW will regenerate areas blighted by serious and organised crime and will allow residents to reclaim their communities, building long-term resilience against organised crime groups and help prevent future threats to safety.

How?

All partners will work closely to share information and identify hot spots that need regeneration as well as targeted activity to remove and disrupt organised crime groups. In addition, partners will provide advice and services, in particular to those in need of assistance who may struggle to access help. Areas that will be focussed on include: the living, working and recreational environment for residents, opportunities for young people, help with employment, assistance to access funding, health issues, crime prevention and security advice.

Events will also be held with community groups that will provide opportunities for input from residents to determine how partners can best help and support communities.

Who?

Partners involved in RENEW include North Wales Police, Denbighshire County Council’s Licensing, Trading Standards, Childrens, and Homeless Services, North Wales Fire and Rescue, housing associations, BCUHB Substance Misuse, Wales Probation Service, local businesses, community groups and residents.