Durham and Darlington Police and Crime Commissioner, Joy Allen and local MP Alan Strickland have visited Spennymoor after a plea from hundreds of residents and local County Councillors concerned about rising levels of anti-social behaviour.
The pair visited the town to see and hear for themselves after over 150 local residents attended an impromptu PACT meeting, followed by sixty more at a scheduled PACT meeting at Spennymoor Town Hall to express their dismay at the latest spate of vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
One councillor said: “The upset and frustration expressed by many in the audience at the latest incidents of anti-social behaviour in the town was understandable with many wanting the Police Crime Commissioner and local MP to come to Spennymoor, listen to people’s concerns and answer questions.”
After their visit, PCC Joy Allen said: “No-one should have their life impacted by anti-social behaviour, wherever they live.
“I feel for anyone affected, but the problem cannot be fixed by enforcement alone, it needs input from a variety of agencies to provide education and alternative activities that do not disrupt entire neighbourhoods.
“It is unacceptable behaviour and I’m working hard to find solutions.
“I’m aware of the strength of feeling in Spennymoor which is why I took this opportunity to visit the town and talk to residents and local businesses in key areas.
“I have also raised the problem with the Chief Constable and am assured that the force is taking a tough approach against those who insist on behaving in this way with significant arrests being made.
“The concerns regarding ASB and the use of off-road bikes are very much a priority for the local neighbourhood teams, and with the further £1m for ‘hotspot’ policing patrols I secured from the Government, Spennymoor will benefit from increased enforcement and even more targeted patrols.
“In addition, the Safer Streets Summer Initiative which just started, alongside the introduction of the Neighbourhood Guarantee, will see a strong and visible police presence across County Durham and Darlington. Together, it will make a difference.”
Spennymoor's local community newspaper.
