Tower Hamlets police have a good reason to spend time at the shops

Police in Tower Hamlets won’t get in trouble for spending time at the shops any more because it’s likely they’ll be on duty.

Shoppers in the large Sainsbury’s store on Cambridge Heath Road can expect to see more bobbies on the beat around the shop after a new police base was opened there yesterday.

The store has converted a room behind the check-outs to be used by officers from the Whitechapel Safer Neighbourhoods team and any other officers in the area.

It was officially opened by Supt Mark Wolski and store manager Peter White.

Chief Insp Nigel Nottidge, who played a key role in setting up the base, said: “The sight of our officers will give extra reassurance to staff and customers who will have a great opportunity to meet their local police in a safe and friendly environment.”

A police spokesman said the store is a hub of activity and a natural meeting place for many people so it would allow the police to increase contact with residents.

There will not be a 24 hour presence at the base, but a contact number will be advertised on the door and the spokesman said people could expect to see an increase in uniformed officers in the area.

Mr White said: “I know that all of my colleagues are looking forward to working closer with the officers to help make Whitechapel an even safer place to live and work.”