Police pounding the beat in Bradford city centre are to be encouraged to adopt a “hands on” approach to their work under the leadership of their new boss.

Inspector Sean Duggan, who took charge of City Ward Neighbourhood Policing Team last month, says he wants his officers to take an active role in planning operations to tackle crime.

He said: “The PCs and PCSOs are on the ground being approached by members of the public on a daily basis about matters affecting them.

“The officer who has the contacts and knows the area will be best placed to provide a solution so they will design operations.”

The team recently arrested several youths for drug-taking in Duckett Lane during an operation designed by one of its officers. Business -owners had notified him about problems with cannabis smoking outside their premises during trading hours.

Insp Duggan said: “The city centre is a place where people from all the communities in Bradford converge, it’s where we shop, where we meet and greet friends and where we go out at night.

“It’s important we send people back to their own communities knowing that they feel safe.

“It’s important the police can help to provide a sense of belonging for people living in Bradford city centre and the outlying areas.”

Insp Duggan replaced Inspector Kevin Pickles, who will now work as a Chief Inspector in the Bradford South division until October.

On leaving his city centre post, Insp Pickles said: “I am excited at the prospect of new challenges that await me.

“I will miss the day-to-day interaction with the many colleagues and friends with whom I have built a fantastic working relationship since I came into the post in May 2008.

“Sean is an experienced officer and I have no doubt he will be up to the challenge that awaits him.”