Eastgate shopping centre police hub opening this summer

The hub is opening inside Eastgate shopping centre, opposite the food court, to help police build stronger relationships with businesses and residents, especially youngsters.

It will also offer a highly visible police presence and a go-to for residents to report issues, as Essex Police expects to see an increase in incidents during the busy summer months.

Opening - The hub is opposite the food court and opens Friday to Monday until the first weekend in September (Image: Al Underwood / Essex Police)

As well as speaking to police, visitors will also be able to access information and advice from a variety of organisations with a presence in the hub including the fire service, drug and alcohol charity Open Road, the NHS and Basildon Council.

Sergeant Liz Reschwamm, who came up with the idea of opening a community hub with PC Alex Plakhtienko, said:  “We want to be visible and connect with the local community, particularly young people. During the summer holidays, we expect the town centre to be busy and this can lead to an increase in incidents.

“The hub is in popular area of the centre, and we’d love local people to come in and say hello. The Eastgate team have been fantastic in providing the space and we’ve had a huge number of partners wanting to be part of the initiative. People will be able to find out more about services available that could benefit them.

“Even if you don’t have a particular issue you’d like to discuss, we have lots of useful information and fun events for children to enjoy.“

Community hub - Ellery the elephant has pride of place in the children's play area (Image: Al Underwood / Essex Police)

The hub will host its grand opening at 10am on Saturday before operating from Friday to Monday until the first weekend in September.

There are also a series of activities planned for children including workshops and poetry writing, a colouring competition, biscuit making and indoor archery.

“There is a really strong community spirit here. Even though we’ve not officially opened yet, we’ve have people knocking on the door telling us that this is exactly what the community needs,“ Sgt Reschwamm added.

“That’s brilliant to hear.

“We hope that by having a big presence in this area, we can reduce incidents and show people in Basildon that we’re working together with our partners to make their lives better.”