ELDERLY people continue to feel 'intimidated' in their own town as congregating youths cause disruption.

Cllr Sean Bibby and Cllr Dave Evans, of Shotton, said they have received multiple complaints of anti-social behaviour on the high street.

Cllr Bibby said: "A lot of these complaints are being particularly received from vulnerable and elderly people who feel increasing intimidated and scared by groups of individuals who congregate on benches drinking heavily during shopping hours.

"This has caused significant antagonism especially with the lack of social distancing in the Covid-19 situation."

The Leader has previously reported that residents were urged to report instances of anti-social behaviour to North Wales Police.

However, Shotton residents continue to feel unsafe in the town.

The Leader:

Cllr Sean Bibby said he contacted North Wales Police and Flintshire Council for clarification over enforcement.

In an email sent to officers, he wrote: "Activity is not only limited to drinking with individuals appearing visabily intoxicated but harasses people for money and perception that some of the individuals are engaged in drug dealing activity. There are also groups of younger Eastern European men who congregate in back alleyways whilst their behaviour is less disruptive they can very loud and boisterous and when a few gather in a narrow back alleyways running parallel with the main road can create a very intimidating atmosphere.

 

"Whilst this behaviour may appear innocuous to some, for vulnerable and elderly people it cause a great deal of fear and distress. We have received some comments of elderly residents now refraining from shopping and calling into Shotton - even travelling to Mold and Flint to shop.

"This undoubtedly is causing alarm with local traders who are trying desperately to emerge from the Coronavirus Crisis and keep their businesses afloat and feel the atmosphere in the town is driving trade elsewhere.

"We’ve had numerous requests to remove benches and members of public demanding alcohol seized and groups dispersed. Litter from cans and bottles are strewn on the street and Streetscene Operatives are continuously clearing this up.

"It was of interest to have a review of Alcohol Designated PSPO on Environment Overview and Scrutiny on 13th July. When matters have been raised with Police Officers locally there has been some confusion - this suggests Police Officers on the ground aren’t entirely sure or clear on where they stand in regards to the PSPO."

The Leader:

Cllr Bibby went on to say: "I am under no illusions with the current situation with Police resources and clearly expectation of a sustained Police presence on the High Street policing this day in day out is not realistic. This has been ongoing for months and I am aware there have been reports made by the public to the Police.

"This is not entirely a police matter so I’m keen to have some feedback from Public Protection on maybe Flintshire’s Neighbourhood Wardens are able to assist in tackling this in conjunction with the Police.

"Clearly there are some individuals that do have alcohol/substance misuse problems (although not all are and it should not be an excuse for threatening or intimidating behaviour) - can liaison be made with Substance Misuse be engaged to also work with individuals in question?

"Can the Chief Officer and Inspector please provide some clarification over the enforcement of the PSPO?"