Town leaders urge action on antisocial behaviour surge:
ASUSPECTED arson attack and spates of vandalism at a popular nature reserve has seen concerns raised over growing anti social behaviour in Llangefni.
North Wales Police are currently investigating a Boxing Day fire at a former school on Chapel Street, which is believed to have been set deliberately.
December also saw wide condemnation after hundreds of pounds worth of damage was caused when more than 50 yards of wooden fencing were torn down at the town’s Dingle nature reserve.
But coupled with reports over increased drug taking and alcohol consumption in public spaces which has also been reported, as well as instances of shoplifting, community leaders in the town have come together to urge action.
According to the town council, which regularly invites local police officers to discuss issues relating to anti social behaviour, many locals have voiced concerns about large crowds of youths gathering outside supermarkets and “intimidating shoppers and passers-by” as well as reports of criminal damage to the public toilets near Iceland.
As a result, representatives from North Wales Police, Anglesey Council, Llangefni Town Council as well as the local football club and social enterprise have all come together to discuss such concerns.
District Inspector
Anglesey, Llinos Davies, said: “Concerns have been raised in relation to antisocial behaviour and offending by young people in the Llangefni area.
“In October half term local PCSOs organised a project focused on diversionary activities for young people living locally.
“Another similar project has been arranged for February half term.
“This work is evidence that local police are committed to working with partners to prevent further escalation in behaviour and incidents.
“However young people as well as their parents/ guardians need to understand that there are consequences to criminal and anti-social behaviour and such behaviour will not be tolerated by local police.”
There have also been incidents of criminal damage to the Urban Sports Park, which resulted in the Llangefni Social Enterprise working with the young people involved and their parents as part of a restorative justice project to make amends for the criminal damage caused.
This, they say, was made possible after CCTV was installed which enabled the offenders to be identified.
A spokesman for Anglesey Council urged parents to be aware of where their children are and what they may be doing in their free time and that anyone concerned about their child’s behaviour should contact Teulu MÔn.
Cllr Alun Mummery,
Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, added: “We are becoming increasingly aware of the concerns of local residents, and are working with other agencies to bring this spate of anti-social behaviour to an end.
“We are urging members of the public to report any concern to the police as soon as possible.
“The Llangefni Youth Club is held every Monday and Thursday evening, 7pm - 9pm. Llangefni is also home to a football club, rugby club, and boxing club.
“Young people are encouraged to try out a new sport or hobby along with their friends.”