Support for park cops in bid to tackle boozers
PARK-GOERS largely backed an increased police presence at Kelvingrove Park yesterday, calling it a “positive step” in preventing binge drinking, littering and anti-social behaviour.
Glasgow City Council staff and officers were stationed on the gates along the park throughout the day, warning those with booze would not be allowed inside.
Kelvingrove Park was packed in many areas as the city got some rays of sun in 27-degree weather.
The day passed relatively untroubled with only two charged by officers for breaking drinking rules in the green space.
And the new rules seemed to be welcomed by Glaswegians, many of whom said it was a “positive change”.
Suzie Nelson, a 29-yearold parent, who was with her child, said: “I think it’s been really good. It’s a really positive change, it feels more child friendly.
“Even though there’s more police coming around it feels like it’s stopped binge drinkers coming here.
“I’ve certainly seen fewer drunk people around, especially younger teenagers.
“I think it was natural when you saw a lot of restaurants offering pints-to-go and you saw everyone walking around with their plastic pints.
“Everyone was reeking of drink but you’re thinking it’s one in the afternoon and you’re walking your baby and going by a crowd of teenager girls and guys drinking it just wasn’t a nice atmosphere. I like seeing police.”
Daniella Alvarenga, 36, who also had her child with her, said: “It’s the litter they leave behind too.
“For security, considering Covid-19 and social distancing it’s been a bother in the park because people were not respecting the rules when I was walking with the pram.”
Daniella wasn’t one appreciating benefits of police the park.
As well as keeping binge drinkers at bay, Linda, 60 thought it helped keep people socially-distanced too – a problem highlighted this June.
She said: “I’m quite happy with the police walking about. I think it will keep some social distancing. It’s still pleasant walking around.”
Dylan, 23, said: “The issue I think that’s quite bad is litter and the anti-social side to it.
“If the council is trying to control the litter and stop people getting hurt, then definitely I think it’s fair.” the only the other patrolling