"IT has been much better in the city centre recently," said a Bradford Business Improvement District (BID) chief when asked how the issue of anti-social behaviour is going.

It comes as the organisation continues to strengthen its approach to reducing business crime and related anti-social behaviour by joining forces with the long-established City Centre Beat (CCB).

This collaboration builds on the BID’s recent initiatives, including the launch of the 24/7 Command and Intelligence Centre support line and the introduction of the BID Patrol Team earlier this year.

Speaking to the Telegraph & Argus, Jonny Noble, chief executive of Bradford BID, said: "It (city centre crime) was getting worse for a while.

"Not so much, shop theft, that seems to be low compared to national figures, just the anti-social behaviour.

"Over the last two months, we have seen an improvement in that."

He added: "The BID patrol team are helping and they are definitely a deterrent to anti-social behaviour and moving people on.

"They are a visual deterrent to people coming into the city centre to cause mischief."

The partnership between the two non-profit organisations will create a more streamlined and enhanced intelligence-sharing process, involving key partners like the National Business Crime Reduction Partnerships, National Business Crime Solution, West Yorkshire Police, and other major stakeholders.

Working with industry experts ASEL, CCB will gain access to intelligence gathered by the BID Patrol Team and the data processed at the 24/7 Command and Intelligence Centre.

In addition, CCB will establish a base at the BID offices to host briefings and training sessions for its members.

Mr Noble added: "Although we've always worked closely with City Centre Beat, feedback from businesses during and after our ballot made it clear that a stronger partnership would benefit everyone.

"Both of our organisations are laser-focused on reducing city centre crime—whether theft or anti-social behaviour.

"By combining our expertise, we can provide even greater support to our businesses."

Steve Baker, Manager at CCB, added: "For 18 years, City Centre Beat has been supporting Bradford businesses in reducing crime, disorder, and anti-social behaviour.

"Together with the Kirkgate Shopping Centre Management, Broadway shopping centre, Bradford BID, City Centre Policing Teams, and Bradford Council CCTV, we’ve supported our 120 members in the city centre.

"Now, through this closer partnership with Bradford BID, we’re excited to expand our membership and provide even more support.

"The more radios, intelligence, and training we can offer, the greater the benefit to the entire city centre community."