FESTIVAL Leisure Park is a safer place to go out, thanks to the work of an award-winning police officer.

PC Alex Plakhtienko, neighbourhood constable for Pitsea North West, was named police officer of the year at last month’s Essex Police Awards.

He has worked extensively on improving night-time safety across the Basildon area, with a particular focus on tackling binge drinking and violence at bars and clubs in Basildon’s popular leisure park.

Mr Plakhtienko said: “I started looking into the night-time economy about eight years ago.

“There were a lot of issues on Festival Leisure around binge drinking and gang and drink related violence.

“We are in a far better position now though.”

A two-year project to introduce number plate recognition technology and a new radio system means officers can now easily pass on information about suspicious vehicles as they enter the site.

Mr Plakhtienko has also spearheaded the introduction of drugs checking at bars at the park, after securing funding for cocaine testing kits.

He said: “Prior to closing the clubs were really supportive. It is good for them to know if there is a problem as they do not want these activities going on in their premises.

“If we detect it, then the clubs knew that they had to improve their searching, which they were supportive with.”

Future measures could include the introduction of breathalyser tests for people as they enter clubs, which can determine whether customers are too drunk.

Mr Plakhtienko said: “We want people to go there and have a good time, but we don’t want people that are so intoxicated that they cause trouble.

“The clubs don’t want this either as this can really affect their licence.”

As Festival Leisure Park undergoes a major revamp, which includes the demolition of several nightclubs to make way for a restaurant and play area complex, Mr Plakhtienko believes partnership work is vital to ensure the smooth running of the site.

He said: “Over the years I have built up a portfolio of agencies and contacts, which allows me to take on projects because I know whoIcan call on for support and assistance.

“I have worked with these agencies for years, and that is the way to get results, which is the key to successful neighbourhood policing.

“I see myself as part of a team.

This is not about individuals, you need to have the right people in place and we all need to be able to work together and trust each other.

“I work closely with Basildon Council, social services and an organisation called Family Mosaic.

“They all know they can trust me, I will always look at the best way to deal with an issue.”

The PC believes the Essex Police award is proof his projects have been successful.

He said: “I read a quote from a resident from Craylands who was congratulating me on the award.

“That was really nice to see and to receive that feedback from the community I serve.

“I think that was worth it on its own, but to win the award was really good. It is nice to get the recognition for the job we do every day.”