A new online tool has been launched by Dorset Police to make it easier for people to report crime and anti-social behaviour at historic sites across the county.
The initiative forms part of the force’s new Heritage Watch scheme, aimed at protecting more than 10,000 listed buildings, monuments, world heritage sites and protected wrecks in Dorset.
The online form, available via the Dorset Police website, allows members of the public to report suspicious activity or damage involving heritage assets. Users can also sign up for alerts on nearby incidents through the Dorset Alert system.
Heritage crime includes any offence that harms historic buildings or protected sites, from vandalism and theft to unauthorised metal detecting.
Sergeant Ian Arnold, who leads on heritage crime for Dorset Police, said the new system gives communities a direct way to help preserve historic places. He encouraged anyone with information to use the form or check with Historic England if unsure whether a site is protected.
Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said the scheme will support collaboration between residents, the police and organisations like Historic England to tackle crime and support Dorset’s cultural heritage and tourism economy.
The move supports priorities set out in the Police and Crime Plan, which includes a focus on heritage crime prevention.