Lib Dem action on anti-social behaviour in Heath & Birchgrove

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 5th Jul 2007

Cllr. Jim James and Cllr. Gerald Harris are working hard to tackle anti-social behaviour in places like Heath Park.

Heath's Liberal Democrat Focus Team has been getting involved with tackling anti-social behaviour in Heath and Birchgrove.

At a recent PACT (Police & Communities Together) meeting, local Lib Dem councillors were asked to look into the possibility of using new legislation to create alcohol-free zones in the ward's parks, especially the Heath Park and Llynfedw Gardens

As a result, Cllr. Michelle Michaelis has contacted the Parks and Leisure Departments of the council and made a request to have both parks designated 'Controlled Drinking Areas', where the Police would have powers to stop people drinking or confiscate any alcohol in their possession.

Councillor Jim James told us: "There have been several reports of vandalism and nuisance in these areas at night, and we are determined to see action taken to stamp out any problems."

The issue is likely to be taken forward over the coming months once the Police have established whether there are serious problems of crime and disorder directly related to consumption of alcohol in the parks. There will also have to be public consultation in both areas.

Cllr. Michelle Michaelis said: "I hope we can get this matter resolved. Residents are understandably concerned about drinking in our public parks, and we want to see the council doing its bit to tackle the problem."

• The next Heath & Birchgrove PACT meeting will be on 13th August, 7pm at Maes-y-Coed Community Centre. Residents are encouraged to attend.