Plans to make park yob-free (From Penarth Times)

Plans to make park yob-free

THE Vale Council and police have moved to oust yobs from Penarth's Alexandra Park.

A joint initiative has been launched to tackle the problem of anti-social behaviour and vandalism at one of the town's most popular parks.

A spokesperson for Penarth police said: "Over the last few weeks there has been an increase in youth annoyance and anti-social behaviour in the Alexandra Park area.

"In order to combat this, a team of police officers are patrolling the area targeting anti-social behaviour, confiscating alcohol and taking steps to stop graffiti and other minor damage.

"In the first weekend 47 youths were stopped and spoken to regarding their conduct and large quantities of alcohol were confiscated and disposed of.

"Letters were also sent to the parents of many of the children.

"Officers also visited many off licences in the area reminding them of their responsibilities and making them aware of the problems."

Vale of Glamorgan Council's Parks and Grounds Maintenance Division, with the support of South Wales Police, will lock access gates to the park at dusk on Friday and Saturday evenings for the following three weekends.

Vale Cabinet Member for Visible Services, Cllr Geoff Cox said: "It is always regrettable when we have to take action of this nature and, hopefully, it will only be for a temporary period.

"Local residents should be able to enjoy the park and not be troubled by the anti-social behaviour of a minority.

"The Council is seeking the public's continued support to improve the area and make it a better quality park for all users."