A North Lanarkshire councillor has hit out at vandals who have been indulging in vandalism and antisocial behaviour in Motherwell town centre.
Councillor Agnes Magowan, who represents the Motherwell South East and Ravenscraig ward, spoke of her "disgust" having been contacted by shop bosses over the problem.
The SNP councillor told Lanarkshire Live she had received an email from town centre management with “very worrying and concerning information”.
The email states that thousands of pounds worth of damage had been caused by youths smashing shop doors and windows.
Theft, throwing glass bottles from a height, graffiti, verbal abuse to staff and customers, covering staff and customers with flour ,eggs and milkshakes and pulling down electrical cables are some of the activities the perpetrators are alleged to have taken part in.
Councillor Magowan told us : “Due to the pandemic, businesses and shops in Motherwell Town Centre have been suffering due to the low footfall.
“As the pandemic loses its grip more people are venturing out and a recovery is underway.
“Our town centre is very important to the wellbeing of the people of Motherwell for socialising and employment.
“Unfortunately a section of the community, namely young people between 11 and 16, are behaving in an extremely antisocial manner and are hampering this recovery.
“The police are working tirelessly on this and have an action plan to try and address this disgraceful mindless vandalism.”
Earlier this month, police announced they were asking for the public’s help following reports of antisocial behaviour in Motherwell.
Officers confirmed they were investigating problems in Brandon Parade in Motherwell town centre.
The statement added that community police were aware and dealing with the reports made in partnership with the local businesses in the area.
Councillor Magowan added: “If youngsters are caught engaging in this type of behaviour they could be reported or charged.
"We want to make our town centre an attractive, thriving place to go where youngsters can enjoy shopping or having a coffee.
“Antisocial behaviour ruins it for everyone.”
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