Council launches ‘Newark Partnership Hub’ to strengthen place-based working and tackle anti-social behaviour

The refreshed hub will build on the success of the Safer Streets project by providing a dedicated base for enhanced partnership working to address anti-social behaviour (ASB), crime, and community safety concerns across Newark town centre.

The Newark Partnership Hub will continue to be based at Chatham Court but will broaden its focus, bringing together the Council, Nottinghamshire Police, and a range of partner agencies to work more closely on local issues. The hub will act as a local gateway for joint action, particularly in known ASB hotspots including Chatham Court, Queens Court, Howes Court, and Tithe Barn Court.

Councillor Lee Brazier, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “The Newark Partnership Hub represents a new phase in how we work alongside our partners to keep communities safe. The original Chatham Court Hub delivered real improvements in residents’ feelings of safety, and this new approach allows us to build on that success.”

Originally established in 2021 using funding from the Home Office’s Safer Streets programme, the Chatham Court Hub played a key role in improving safety and confidence among residents. Surveys showed improved perceptions of safety following the project, and the initiative was shortlisted for a national MJ Award in 2023.

While use of the hub as a community space has reduced over time, Cabinet agreed that refocusing the facility as a partnership base offers the greatest benefit for residents and partners. As a pilot scheme, funding has been approved for an initial 24‑month period, with performance reviewed as the project develops.

The Newark Partnership Hub will support work including:

• Tackling anti-social behaviour and supporting victims.
• Burglary prevention and crime reduction.
• Improving public safety and confidence.
• Coordinated neighbourhood improvements.
• Local awareness campaigns on issues such as domestic abuse, waste management, and communal living.

The Council will continue to engage with tenants and residents as the hub develops, ensuring the new model delivers clear, measurable outcomes for the community. Existing funding of £11,000 per year will support the hub, with potential additional improvements subject to external funding bids.