Local businesses and officials in Reading, Berkshire, are increasing security patrols to help keep the town centre safe from anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. A ceremony on January 29, 2026, marked the expansion of a project involving Reading BID, Reading Borough Council and Thames Valley Police.
SIA-accredited BID Business Wardens now patrol the town seven days a week to challenge nuisance behaviour and report incidents. The wardens share information directly with Reading Borough Council enforcement teams and Thames Valley Police via a Town Safe radio network.
The work is supported by a levy paid by more than 900 local businesses and by a £429,000 Home Office ‘Safer Streets’ grant awarded to Reading Borough Council (with partner organisations and match funding from the council) to improve town-centre safety. The teams focus on high-traffic areas such as Broad Street and Friar Street to help make the streets feel more welcoming for visitors.
The wardens have previously been recognised for their work: they won a Local Heroes Award in March 2025 (ASEL), with Barry Smith, Gary Nicholls and James Eden cited for first-aid response and de-escalating violent incidents. The wardens also received a commendation from Thames Valley Police in late 2024 for their support in the town centre.
The project aims to increase footfall and business confidence by making the town centre feel more secure, while Thames Valley Police remain responsible for arrests and legal processing when required.
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