Wardens could soon have power to take on anti-social louts
Community wardens’ powers could be ramped up in the fight against anti-social behaviour in Renfrewshire.
Council officers will look at expanding their powers after a motion put forward by Andy Doig, an independent candidate in Johnstone North and the surrounding villages, was passed.
Mr Doig spoke of “harrowing stories” of bullying and harassment that have blighted communities and emphasised that society must “get a better handle” on this issue.
The council agreed to consider the “best practice” of other local authorities on this front, with a report to be made with its findings to the Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board.
Mr Doig said: “There’s two ways we can tackle antisocial behaviour.
“We can tackle it procedurally and the council’s procedures, compared to other councils in Scotland, are very good.
“They’ve been commended by other councils for their collaborative approach. That’s one way we can tackle it.
“We also need to do more to tackle it at the frontline, where it actually happens, in our communities, in our villages, in our schemes, in our town centres. We need to tackle this.
“I’ve heard some harrowing stories. In the last five years, I’ve heard some dreadful stories about anti-social behaviour, not exclusively but mainly, in parts of Johnstone town centre.
“People have developed mental health problems because of the impact of low-level bullying, harassment and continual noise. We need to get a better handle on this.”
Mr Doig made it clear that he wanted to see the role of the warden “kept within the ambit of the council”, but added: “We need to look at giving them more powers to work with the police.
“That’s important, because we need to tackle it on the ground.
“We need to be able to send our wardens into situations where they make a difference.”
Cathy McEwan, an SNP candidate in Renfrew South and Gallowhill, said sharing best practice with other local authorities also provided an opportunity to showcase Renfrewshire Council’s “good work”.
She said: “Best practice in any local council is a good thing and we should be sharing best practice within councils.
“It gives us a chance as well to show the really good work that is already being done in the Renfrewshire hub.
“If we can add more to that by looking at other best practices, there is absolutely no reason why we shouldn’t do that.”
We need to be able to send our wardens into situations where they make a difference