Additional Requirements
As detailed, from late October 2023 a significant increase in anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the Blakenall area became apparent. Some of the ASB has caused the breakage of side windows in buses operating through the area.
An extensive multi-agency response was mobilised in December 2023, with significant resource now being put in to resolve these issues.
West Midlands Police, Walsall MBC, TfWM, bus operators, education and housing partners are all a key part of this.
Actions taken to date include: • Installation of additional fixed CCTV in Blakenall / Goscote • Significant increase in visible police patrols in the area, on and off bus • Further securing of fencing / clearance of areas to reduce hiding places • Partnership working with local schools • Further resource put into Youth Justice • Further investment in Youth Worker resource • Use of technology such as drones • 999 response for any ASB reported by bus operators
Health & Safety
Bidders should note the requirement for internal and external CCTV to be fitted. In addition, it is suggested that bidders consider further risk mitigation, which may include (for example): • Full height assault screens. • Application of transparent film to side windows available from industry glass suppliers.
Prior to commencement of the contract, the successful bidder will be required to submit a full risk assessment to TfWM for the operation of this service and to advise TfWM of any review or subsequent amendment to this risk assessment.
TfWM can brief the successful bidder on risk mitigation measures being put in place by the Police and other agencies.
Local Policing
As far as is reasonably practicable, the successful bidder should have a nominated representative available to attend regular meetings with West Midlands Police, Walsall MBC, TfWM and other partners for the purposes of sharing intelligence and informing local mitigation measures.
Restoration of Full Service
It is TfWM’s intention that the full service should be restored as soon as is reasonably possible.
The re-introduction of journeys currently curtailed will be supported by TfWM’s Safer Travel Team in partnership with local policing teams. Prior to commencement of contract, TfWM will discuss and mutually agree with the successful bidder a timeline for reintroducing the full timetable.
Ideally this would be from the first day of operation; however, a phased approach would equally be acceptable
