Extra cops on patrol to stop Quays bike yobs
EXTRA patrols were deployed to deal with off-road bikes at Salford Quays where anti-social behaviour ‘dominated’ demand for police this summer.
Anti-social behaviour linked to cars and off-road bikes driving around the Quays has resulted in additional police resources being allocated to the area.
The coronavirus crisis could have also contributed to an increase in footfall at the Quays, with many people seeking to spend time in open space since the lockdown.
Greater Manchester Police Chief Inspector Tom Martin revealed that the Quays is one of the few communities in the borough for which his team has had to ask for additional funding from the regional force’s headquarters.
He said: “Salford Quays probably dominated the business in the summer months for anti-social behaviour.
“There were reports of off-road bikes being used within that area and also The Lowry.
“There was one recent occasion when there was a quad bike reported to being used and it was linked to the fact that there was free WiFi at the locality.
“In order to address that and other off-road bike use and antisocial behaviour linked to cars, we’ve brought in our specialist road policing team to address the criminality and anti-social behaviour.”
A public space protection order (PSPO) is in place at the Quays and prohibits climbing onto and jumping off bridges, interfering with lifesaving equipment and any unauthorised swimming.
Police and other partners have issued more than 19 warning letters to parents of young people who have been in breach of the PSPO. This is a precursor to anti-social behaviour orders which could be issued to manage the behaviour.
But despite these extra powers, Chf Insp Martin told Salford councillors on a scrutiny panel that the summer has still been an
‘incredible challenge’. Ordsall councillor Ann-Marie Humphreys said: “Salford Quays is part of my ward and we have had many complaints as you have stated in your report.
“It’s not all been young people committing the problems either.
“I’ve never known so many upset residents as I have this summer.”