Residents in West Bridgford have welcomed the strengthening of a crime-fighting order to tackle anti-social behaviour in the area. Rushcliffe Borough Council has decided to expand a community public space protection order (PSPO) to the ponds and green spaces off Compton Acres.
The space near the ponds has been used by individuals for drinking alcohol and there have also been issues with people urinating and begging nearby. Those found to be flouting the order could be fined up to £100.
The council’s cabinet portfolio holder for environment and safety, Councillor Rob Inglis, said: "I'm pleased the renewal and amendments of our PSPO have been approved and will now include the extension to Lyme Park pond and Broadstone Close pond in Compton Acres. We're still faced with anti-social behaviours in Rushcliffe and the proven success of our PSPOs help officers to deal with offenders quickly and efficiently, providing directions and advice to further tackle their behaviour.
Read more: Terrified woman waited 6 hours to escape attacker after she was strangled
"This amended PSPO will help to ensure that the law-abiding majority can use, enjoy and feel safe in our fantastic parks and public spaces." When asked if he had witnessed any anti-social behaviour in the area, resident Denis Moore, 60, said he had not - but added that he welcomed police having more powers if others in the area have been experiencing issues.
When asked about the issues, a man in his 60s, who did not wish to be named, said: "We’re not aware of that, although there is a man who does drink there. We have had eggs thrown at our house but it’s not to do with the pond as far as we know. It’s the kids coming off the tram at Halloween and a few days after that."
Retired Ian Duce, 72, added: "We have noticed a couple of guys who hang out around there and have a drink at all times of the day. It actually used to be much worse in the past - that was more of a problem with youths. I think it’s certainly the same individuals who have been there for some time."
Retired Howard Lloyd, 68, said: "I wasn’t aware that there was a problem, but if there is a problem then I’m glad some action is being taken as long as it’s not too heavy handed. We have lived here for 34 years and we did have one burglary many years ago but that’s it.
"Generally it’s a nice, friendly place to live." When asked if he had seen any problems with anti-social behaviour, a 50-year-old IT worker said: "There is a gentleman who quite regularly shows up at the other side of the pond to drink alcohol and fills the bins up.
"There used to be drug dealers hanging around there." When asked his thoughts on the PSPO being extended, he added: "As long as they (police) have adequate power, I think that will be helpful." A retired 75-year-old said: "We haven't observed anything because since Covid I don't go out.
"Sometimes we see on the neighbourhood news page that someone is not happy, but nothing as far as we have observed." He described the area as a "nice place" to live and that "most people are well-behaved."
He added: "Anti-social behaviour is never acceptable. Anything is good to stop it."
READ NEXT:
I'm A Celeb's Matt Hancock abandons Gina as she flies home alone and he stays to 'cash in on fame'
Decision to extend E-Scooter trial with thousands of daily users
Jury discharged in trial of 5 men accused of the murder of man in city street
Bus driver stole more than £72k from employer and colleagues
People on certain benefits could be owed £1,500 after legal case
