Three anti-social behaviour (ASB) hotspots in Carlisle have seen a reduction in ASB by 31.7% following extra police patrols in the areas as part of Operation Enhance.
The operation aims to tackle anti-social behaviour in hotspot areas across the county by placing extra patrols in 15 hotspot areas. David Allen, Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner secured £1 million of extra funding from the Government’s Hotspot Response Fund to fund Operation Enhance.
Cumbria Constabulary examined data to identify the ASB hotspots across the county. Carlisle’s High Street and Botchergate were identified in 2024, and London Road was recently identified as a priority hotspot area in 2025. Between 1 October 2024 and 30 September 2025, there have been 78 less reports of anti-social behaviour on these streets dropping from 246 reports to 168.
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “As Commissioner and a Carlilse resident, I’m really pleased to see the positive impact Operation Enhance is having on the city.
“A reduction of 31.7% on ASB across three hotspots is an impressive feat and I know that as the operation continues, ASB will reduce even further.
“London Road is a newly identified hotspot so it will be great to see how Operation Enhance assists with the reductions in this area on top of the great work the Carlilse Neighbourhood Policing Team do already.
“Operation Enhance clearly highlights the positive impact of having more police officers on our streets patrolling.
“Increased visible policing is one of the pledges I made to the public as Commissioner, and this is part of delivering this promise.
“It’s something that all residents want to see and I hope that they feel safer knowing that Police are out and about in their community.
“I look forward to seeing the positive impact of operation enhance continue.
“I’d urge the public to continue to report anti-social behaviour and crime to the Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Each report helps Police build evidence and ensures the appropriate resources are placed in the right areas. If you have anti-social behaviour happening in your area, report it. It is only by such reporting that the police know about it and can take action.
“If you feel that you have reported to the Police and haven’t seen a change, please contact me at commissioner@cumbria-pcc.gov.uk or at 01768 217734. I am the residents’ voice – your voice – in Policing, so please let me help.”
Chief Superintendent Andy Wilkinson, Cumbria Constabulary, said: "Operation Enhance has allowed us to increase our presence in our hotspot areas of Carlisle, and the results speak for themselves.
“A 31.7% reduction in anti-social behaviour is a clear indication that our targeted, visible policing works.
“Building on the work of our neighbourhood policing team, we have engaged with residents and local businesses to develop even stronger community relationships.
“We are committed to continuing this work and making sure Carlisle remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone."
If you wish to report to police you can do so online at Report a crime | Cumbria Police. You can also phone on 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.