Calls for a new police station to tackle shoplifting in a city hotspot have been made.
The demand follows concerns about rates of shoplifting in Worcester, with St John’s identified as one of the city’s most affected areas.
Councillor Richard Udall, who represents St John’s, said: “Shoplifting is a significant crime and is damaging the community; I receive regular complaints and concerns about the issue.
“Threats of violence against shop workers and shoplifting will lead to people refusing to work in retail and will ensure shop closures, which will decimate retail areas like St John’s.
“I asked for the police to consider having a police station in St John’s, and suggested sharing rooms at St John’s Library.
“A visible police presence would act as a deterrent and we need to consider this urgently.”
Cllr Richard Udall (Image: Newsquest)
Between 2023 and 2025, St John’s recorded 292 reports of shoplifting, roughly two incidents per week, a Freedom of Information request to West Mercia Police has shown.
Only Cathedral, which covers the city centre (1,838), Warndon Parish South (489), and Warndon (387) recorded higher figures over the same period.
The area with the lowest number of reported shoplifting offences was St Stephen, with just one case.
READ MORE: Plea to find forever homes as RSPCA cattery nears full house at peak time of year
Inspector Dave Wise of West Mercia Police said: “We recognise the significant impact that shoplifting can have on businesses, staff and the wider community.
“The St John’s and Bedwardine Safer Neighbourhood Team consists of two neighbourhood constables and two police community support officers, who are based at the police base on Burleigh Road in Dines Green.
“St John’s Library is approximately one mile from Worcester police station, which operates 24/7 and officers there are also tasked to focus on retail crime.
“Residents and business owners have regular opportunities to speak directly with their local safer neighbourhood team through community engagement events held across the area.”
Inspector Dave Wise (Image: West Mercia Police)
While data shows an overall reduction in shoplifting offences across Worcester between 2024 and 2025, including a decline in St John’s from 109 to 87 offences, insp Wise said the problem remains a priority, especially where shoplifting is accompanied by violence or threats.
He said: “In Worcester, dedicated officers are focused on tackling retail crime, including violence against shop workers, and targeting those repeat offenders causing the greatest harm.
“We work closely with retailers to identify offenders, gather evidence and develop problem-solving approaches that help prevent crime and keep staff safe.
“We would encourage businesses and members of the public to continue reporting all incidents of shoplifting, violence, threats or abuse towards retail workers, as this information helps us identify offenders, build intelligence and take appropriate action.”
READ MORE: Fears disposable barbecues could have devastating consequences in public parks
Cllr Udall said: “Shop workers are on the front line against crime and frequently suffer from abuse, violence and threats, including threats of serious violence – which includes being followed home after work.”
Legislation has been brought in which makes it a specific offence to threaten or abuse retail workers but, having only received Royal Assent three months ago, there is little-to-no examples of people in Worcester being brought before the courts for the offence.
