Newark and Sherwood District Council tries to stamp out rise in anti-social behaviour
A range of interventions to prevent and deter anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the district are in force.
Before the covid-19 pandemic, ASB incidents recorded by the police were declining each year.
But during 2020-21 when the pandemic began, there was a 71% increase in reported incidents — which has reduced to 24% to date.
Working in a number of communities where ASB is prevalent, Newark and Sherwood District Council and its ASB officers are collaborating with partners to combat anti-social and criminal activity.
Activities have included community graffiti projects, most recently at Barnby Road bridge and Clay Lane bridge on the Sustrans track in Newark.
Discussing ASB at a council meeting, member Johno Lee said: “I’d have preferred an area-by-area breakdown. In the past Balderton has had a 200% increase [in ASB].
“We need need to know what crime and ASB is happening in each area. It would help us know how to assist residents.”
Officer Alan Baty said a ward breakdown was available but that it needed to be read with caution as a 200% rise, for example, could be an increase of just four incidents.
Instances of violent behaviour in Boughton were discussed.
Mr Baty added: “There was a serious crime committed only a few weeks ago. It’s been a very localised incident with the three individuals causing a lot of distress and concern to residents.
“While it’s a serious incident, it is contained and we’re getting close to a fairly good resolution. One has an injunction against him not to go on the Kirk Drive estate, and the other two are on remand.”
Last year, in response to an increasing reports of ASB and following consultation with local organisations, the council approved the launch of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) for Newark town centre, Balderton lakes, Coronation Park and the Balderton Lakeside shopping centre.
A PSPO allows authorised officers to disperse people who they suspect have been involved in, or are likely to cause, ASB. If an person or group refuse to comply when directed to leave an area under these conditions — they will be committing a criminal offence and may face a fine or prosecution.
Council leader David Lloyd said: “We are committed to working with our partners in what continues to be a multi-agency response to reduce anti-social behaviour in our communities and protect victims from these perpetrators.
“We hold regular meetings with the local policing inspector to discuss any issues staff and residents have reported, and to work together to find solutions to these problems. Let me be clear, we do not tolerate this behaviour and will pursue and support enforcement action where it is required.”
Inspector Charlotte Allardice, district commander for Newark and Sherwood, said: “We continue to work extremely hard alongside our partners to investigate reports of ASB.
“We understand the devastating impact ASB can have on a community, people’s homes, businesses and the surrounding areas, and we will always investigate any reports with the view of taking swift action against any offenders.
“Tackling ASB remains a key priority for us and our neighbourhood policing team, and we will continue to work alongside our partners and members of the community and really listen to any worries they may have.
“We would urge anyone who sees something suspicious or has information that could aid police to report it to us on 101 or speak to an officer out on patrol.”
You can also report ASB to the council on its website or by calling 01636 650 000.
