CLYDEBANK will continue to be policed despite the demands of COP26 from the end of the month, the area’s top cop has said.

Local area commander Chief Inspector Coleen Wylie said the global environmental assembly in Glasgow would pull officers from West Dunbartonshire as well as the rest of Scotland and the UK.

But she moved to reassure residents that major policing operations, such as the annual Bonfire Night, would continue as a priority while world leaders are in the city between October 31 and November 12.

She said: “Approximately 10,000 officers will be deployed each day during the two-week conference. It will involve local policing officers from Police Scotland’s 13 divisions including specialist resources and police staff from across the organisation. 

“A number of local policing officers from Argyll and West Dunbartonshire division will be committed to supporting the policing operation.

“While the conference is being held in Glasgow, the impact of COP26 will not be limited to the city. We expect to see possible protest activity, associated events and delegates staying in other areas in Scotland.

“With an event of this scale, disruption is inevitable but we are working with partners to keep this to a minimum.”

She continued: “Our policing operation is focussed on the delivery of a safe and secure event but a considerable part of our planning is to ensure that the communities of Scotland continue to receive the same high standard of service to which they are accustomed. 

“Our response to incidents and day-to-day demand will not be compromised by the policing of COP26. 

“We still have a responsibility to police other events that will be ongoing at that time including Operation Moonbeam – the policing response to Bonfire Night.

“While the policing of an event of this size puts incredible demand on our resources, the strength of our national police service allows us the flexibility to ensure that our communities will receive the same very high standards of service during this fortnight.”

Chief Inspector Wylie added: “Local policing officers will continue to police local communities and I would encourage members of the public to speak to those officers to raise any concerns. 

“But please be reassured we will be here if you need us.”

COP26 will take place from October 31 to November 12.