Uppsala municipality has expanded the areas where municipal security guards can operate. The decision follows a 2024 evaluation that showed positive effects on safety. New legislation enabled approval from the police.
The municipality has employed security guards in the city center since 2017. The evaluation confirmed that their presence increases residents' sense of security. Supported by new legislation, the police have approved a larger area for crime prevention work.
Erik Pelling, chairman of the municipal executive board, stressed the value of the effort. "The security guards are an important support in our preventive work," he said. "They help create calmer places and strengthen security for those who live, work and move around in Uppsala."
The new areas include Kapellgärdet, Kvarngärdet, Källparken, outer parts of Fyrishov, Industristaden, the area around Fålhagsleden, the student area around Engelska parken, and the stretch between Akademiska sjukhuset and KAP. Ida Lindman, safety and sustainability director, noted that strategic use prevents problems and makes daily life safer for more people.