ROBUST AND FAR REACHING ACTION MUST HAPPEN NOW!!

The anti-social behaviour within Upton Rocks in Widnes has been increasing significantly over the past few months.  It is becoming almost a daily occurrence.  This is now having a severe negative impact on the local community.  People are avoiding the park altogether!  The park in Upton Rocks is a fantastic asset to the area and residents should not be made to feel scared or intimidated when using the facilities.

Residents have had enough. 

It is only a matter of time before someone is severely injured or loses their life.  We do not want to be a community that sits back and lets this happen.

Residents have experienced and witnessed the following:

- Vandalism
- Regular evidence of underage drinking and drug use
- Gangs congregating
- Eggs being thrown at properties
- Theft
- Evidence of weapons being carried
- Verbal/Physical attacks
- Fires/arson

The police seem almost powerless to deal with this increase as groups of youths can number over 100 at any one time and can evade capture by exiting the park via numerous thoroughfares onto residential streets. 

The increase in incidents has now reached breaking point.  The police and fire service are constantly being called to the area.  They even come under attack themselves when trying to tackle the fires.  

Residents have suggested that the following be considered to help resolve these issues:

- Close/lock the park at night like at Victoria Park
- Removal of the skate park equipment
- Increased evening patrols of the park. Zero Tolerance Policy executed. Alcohol free zone.
- Install a deterrent device as this has proven popular in other areas e.g. classical music, safe high pitch sounds etc
- Increased lighting, removal of undergrowth which can be used as vantage/hiding spots
- PCSO’s going into local schools to educate and reiterate the dangers of setting fires
- Find out which taxi firms are dropping off these youths and inform then of the issues this is causing

This issue is now a matter of urgency...

ROBUST AND FAR REACHING ACTION MUST HAPPEN NOW!!