Focus on rise in anti-social behaviour
RESIDENTS in Arnold say people have “generally been sensible” as a rise in anti-social behaviour was put down to people breaching Covid regulations.
Gedling Borough Council is due to hold a scrutiny review after a report stated there had been a “significant increase” across the area during the pandemic.
Figures released through Police UK show reports of antisocial behaviour doubled in November compared to the same month last year, from 21 reports to 43.
Nottinghamshire Police says the reason behind this is likely because Covid breaches are logged as “ASB”.
Residents in Arnold shared their thoughts on the increase.
Janice Jennison, 62, said: “I can’t say I’ve noticed anything in particular that has got worse so it does shock me to hear there’s been an increase.
“But during the lockdown we’ve not been able to take our grandchildren on the King George V park due to so much dog mess.”
When asked about Covid-19 breaches, the grandmother-oftwo said: “Whenever I’ve been out, people have kept a good distance apart and everyone is still wearing masks.
“Generally people have been quite sensible.
“The parks do get busy but there’s no problem if you keep apart – people need to get out for their health.”
Frank Butler, of Arnold, said: “I do see people letting their dogs run off on the high street, but nothing else really.
“I think it’s too easy to make a report of anti-social behaviour when most people are following the rules.
“We just all need to get on with it.”
A lifelong resident of Arnold who did not wish to be named said he felt there were “pockets” of problems across the borough.
The 67-year-old said: “It’s generally not too bad, but I am really concerned about litter.
“It just causes people to lose pride in their area and before long it’s fly-tipping.
“What’s the point of spending millions on a market and not raise the area as a whole?”
Gedling’s portfolio holder for Public Protection, Councillor David Ellis, said feedback on the figures has been requested from the police.
He added: “We are expecting to be advised that the reason for an increase in anti-social behaviour around the borough is due to the way that Covid breaches are being classified.
“Over the last year, the police and the council has worked together to proactively try and support businesses and residents to follow the rules. However, a few have chosen not to follow the rules and the police and council have intervened. We want to reassure our residents that we are always working on ways to reduce anti-social behaviour.”