AMBITIOUS plans to crack down on crime in communities across the country have been revealed by a local government pressure group.

The nationwide group which represents councils has drawn up a blueprint on how to deal with the growing problem of crime and anti-social behaviour.

The Local Authority Associations are calling for town and county halls to be given sweeping new powers.

And the association has written to Lancashire asking for county hall leaders to support the new initiative.

If the scheme is adopted councils would have a legal duty to adopt community safety plans.

Local authorities would work in partnership with the police and other groups such as the courts and probation service.

Councils would also have to draw up annual reports to show what crime prevention work has been done in each area.

According to the report three per cent of all crimes committed are dealt with by the court.

The LAA believes the best way to deal with the problem of crime is by directing money towards prevention.

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