PRIVATE security guards patrolling Colwyn Bay is being pitched as a solution to attacks on shops and businesses.
Traders in the town centre have been contacted by a security firm looking to post guards on Friday and Saturday nights following reports of criminal damage by shopkeepers.
Andy Rawlinson, managing director of Rhiw Road-based APT Security, said: “It is mainly bottles and stones being thrown through windows. There seems to have been a spate of criminal damage earlier this month. Envi hair salon has had to replace two windows due to damage.
“Paint has been thrown over a dog grooming shop front and a window at The Royal pub was also broken.
“Rendezvous cafe has also suffered broken windows.”
Mr Rawlinson is asking traders to join the scheme which would see patrols of the area and guards picking up any debris which could be used to damage shop windows.
Daniella Hughes, owner of Envi, on Abergele Road, said the attack on her business was “horrible” and welcomed news of private security guards.
She said: “I think it is a way of making the town safer. They will also have the power to move people on. It is a way of making the town look better.”
Fiona Fowler, owner of Queen B Boutique, said: “This is a brilliant idea. It will bring crime down and make Colwyn Bay look nicer. You do not know what you are going to find when you open up in the morning.”
A spokesman for North Wales Police said: “We are aware of four incidents of criminal damage in town centre of Colwyn Bay during the past month.
“Two people have been arrested in connection with two of the incidents, and the other two remain under investigation.
“None of the incidents are linked.”
Chief Inspector Jane Banham said: “We have not had a spate of incidents of criminal damage. The comments being made by the local company are unhelpful. We are keen for this company to work with the police rather than against us to ensure that the area remains a safe place to live, work and visit.”