BOSSES at a Bolton utility firm are pleased to secure an important industry distinction from Greater Manchester Police.

Aptus is responsible for connecting multi-agency networks for new residential, industrial and commercial developments, as well as designing and installing street lighting.

And the Westhoughton contractors have now been certified as Secured by Design (SBD), recognising their contribution to crime prevention through their processes.

This makes them only the second lighting consultant nationally to become part of the accreditation scheme.

Adrian Cunningham, the Barrs Fold Road company’s street lighting manager, said: “We are incredibly proud to have obtained police accreditation and become SBD certified.

“Our customers can be confident that we meet the extremely high standards of an independent third party.

“This accreditation is testament to the hard work and commitment of the Aptus Utilities design team.”

All planning authorities in the UK were recently reminded by government of the important role the planning system can play when it comes to designing out crime and preventing crime.

Mr Cunningham added: “Changes to the English Planning and Building Control regulations have sought to reinforce the need for a safe and secure external environment.

“At Aptus Utilities we work closely with our clients to ensure that safety is of the utmost importance and that lighting is carefully considered at the early stages of any site.”

In order to become Secured by Design licensed consultants and a member company, Aptus Utilities say that they had to adhere to rigorous application and vetting process required by the police.

Secured by Design is the only way for products and services to achieve police recognition in the UK and as such adds a guaranteed level of security not found anywhere else.