Cheltenham Borough Council has introduced a security guard at its Municipal Offices entrance following a notable increase in aggressive incidents targeting both staff and visitors. This move comes amidst a broader trend of heightened security measures across Gloucestershire councils in response to rising verbal and physical aggression during and after public meetings.
The council initiated a six-month trial in May, allocating up to £23,000 for the security service aimed at safeguarding the wellbeing of council employees and the general public. The decision was discussed at last week’s full council meeting after former councillor Emma Nelson inquired about the necessity, timing, and cost of the new security provision.
Liberal Democrat councillor Flo Clucas, responsible for housing and customer services, explained that the presence of the security guard is a direct response to the increased frequency of aggressive incidents in public areas of the Municipal Offices, particularly over the past six months. She emphasized that this is part of a wider effort to improve safety within the building and support a secure environment for all.
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The temporary security arrangement began on May 11, 2026, signaling the council’s commitment to addressing safety concerns proactively, ensuring that municipal services remain accessible and safe for everyone.