Local businesses have seen a reduction in anti-social behaviour in Church Street Mall and surrounds as a direct result of the two-week old program, according to retailers.

Parramatta Lord Mayor, Cr John Chedid said: “Parramatta City Council’s commitment to improving the public’s perception of safety in this area, and in creating safer spaces, is both long-term and of paramount importance.

“As a result, we’ve recently introduced an obvious police presence in the Mall and surrounding streets as the first of many steps we’re taking to reactivate our public domain. Other steps will include the introduction of more CCTV cameras, along with an urban redesign.”

The additional police presence was in place ahead of a number of recent important Council events, including Parramatta Lanes and Parramasala, and helped reinforce public perceptions of safety and to minimise any incidences.

The first official report on incidences and observations to date is expected this week, with the program to be re-evaluated at the end of the year.