Bay watch brief as police out on esplanade patrol
CCTV cameras will monitor crowds hitting Ayr beach this summer as part of a coastal crackdown.
The police have kicked off the Ayr Safer Shores campaign - which aims to cut down on antisocial behaviour at the esplanade.
The operation involves plenty of patrols on the sand as well as a ban on public drinking.
And extra portable CCTV cameras will record any troublemakers.
Chief Inspector Gary I’Anson said: “We will have officers on high visibility patrols throughout the summer dedicated to patrolling the beaches. We want everyone to enjoy the beaches however any incidents of anti- social behaviour will be dealt with robustly.”
Claire Monaghan, head of communities at the council, said: “We don’t want the actions of a few people to ruin a pleasurable day out for everyone else, so anti- social behaviour will not be tolerated.
“The message is clear, enjoy the beach and have fun but don’t cause problems or you could receive a fixed penalty or worse.”
The safety drive is led by the South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership, which includes the police and council working together.
The beach is divided into zones for the police to rapidly respond to any incidents.
Litter, dog fouling and noise nuisance patrols will also be carried out - and it is claimed last year’s operation cut outdoor boozing.
And there are plans for the council’s community safety officers to offer activities including tennis, rounders, cricket, golf and football on the Low Green on Friday and Saturday afternoons.
There will also be live music.