New measures have been introduced to tackle youth disorder at a popular North Tyneside attraction.
Security cameras have been upgraded at Richardson Dees Park in Wallsend to identify troublemakers and bring them to justice.
Community protection officers from North Tyneside Council are also carrying out high-visibility evening patrols with police and park wardens to reassure residents and powerful new warning posters are being put up as a proven deterrent.
It comes following a number of reports of antisocial behaviour in the area, which includes damage to vehicles and vandalism to park equipment as well as groups of youths drinking alcohol and setting off fire extinguishers.
Most incidents take place after dark when the park is closed and at weekends and many of those responsible are believed to be travelling from other areas on the Metro.
In response to residents’ concerns, North Tyneside Council and Northumbria Police have launched the action plan to tackle the issues.
Anyone found to be involved faces being served with injunctions, Community Protection Notices, having their alcohol seized and, in some cases, action against their tenancy.
Cllr Carole Burdis, chair of Safer North Tyneside, said: “Residents have told us that they are concerned about large gatherings of youths in the park and surrounding areas.
“We are very clear that we do not tolerate antisocial behaviour in North Tyneside – it is one of the safest places in the country we want to keep it that way.
“I am delighted that we are working together with police to take positive action to stop this happening and identify those responsible.
“Richardson Dees Park is beautiful place to visit and we want people to feel safe at all times, particularly those who live nearby.
“This is the latest example of the work we, as a council, do with police, the Young Mayor and Cabinet to work closely with young people to keep our public spaces safe – the majority of residents, young and old, make brilliant contributions to our community and we won’t allow the minority to spoil it.
“We have a proven track record of partnership working and we want to reassure residents that we are taking positive action but would urge anyone with concerns to keep reporting them to us.”
Wallsend and Killingworth Neighbourhood Inspector Mark Storey added: “A police operation has been developed and offenders have been identified for antisocial behaviour in Wallsend around Richardson Dees Park.
“These patrols are being carried out at key times and offenders are being dealt with using the full weight of the criminal justice system. Offenders who are convicted will face action and where appropriate offenders will be banned from the area.”
Residents are being reminded to report all incidents of antisocial behaviour by visiting https://my.northtyneside.gov.uk/category/117/report-anti-social-behaviour and filling in the online form. Or to speak to a member of the Community Protection Team, call 0345 2000 101 and ask for Dawn France or Stephen Clarke.
Contact the police on 101 to report general information and in an emergency always dial 999.