The election pledge, to be announced today by opposition police spokesman Edward O’Donohue, will see PSO’s patrol seven-days-a-week from 11am-7pm at the known trouble areas.

The Little Bridge Street bus interchange has been the scene of a recent spate of violent episodes including the alleged bashing of a 15-year-old girl in May.

Two teenage girls, aged 15 and 17, have been charged over incidents in Little Bridge Street and their cases are now before children’s courts.

Police said they have taken a “zero tolerance” approach to anti-social behaviour in the area after shocking video footage emerged of schoolgirls being set upon.

Mr O’Donohue said a Coalition government would introduce patrolling officers in Little Bridge Street, Bridge Mall and Geelong’s Market Square Mall if elected. 

He said the bus interchange on Little Bridge Street has become a hot spot for crime, with many recent shocking incidents of violence and anti-social behaviour. 

“People in Ballarat deserve to feel safe going about their daily lives,” Mr O’Donohue said. 

“The introduction of PSO patrols to Little Bridge Street, and the Bridge Mall, will ensure people feel safe again.”

Mr O’Donohue said funding for the officers would come from an expanded PSO commitment.

“The Liberal Nationals respect the invaluable work that PSOs do in keeping our railway stations, courts and other precincts safe,” he said. 

“Now is the right time to expand their role to other transport hubs and crime hot spots such as Little Bridge Street and surrounds.”

Liberal Candidate for Wendouree Amy Johnson said the policy of expanding the role of PSOs, would make the community safer.

“We’ve seen the positive impact PSOs have had on public safety and perceptions of safety at the Ballarat Railway Station,” she said.

“Now we need to address the crime and anti-social behaviour occurring in the Bridge Mall and Little Bridge Street.”