New restrictions preventing large groups of people from gathering in Seaham have been suggested by a councillor, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Chris Fairs, Reform councillor for Seaham, said local authorities could explore introducing a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) covering the Marina, Church Street, St John’s Square and Byron Place after several incidents in the past week.
Residents reported large groups of children gathering on beaches and popular promenade areas around the town.
Cllr Fairs said: “Excessive drinking, fighting and disorder have no place in our town, and residents deserve to feel safe enjoying the spaces we are all rightly proud of.
“Seaham is a fantastic place to live, work and visit. We will not let the actions of a minority – many of whom don’t even live here – take that away from us.”
Following a meeting with Durham Police, Cllr Fairs said local officers described the behaviour as “disgraceful” and “the worst they had seen locally in years”.
He added: “Intelligence indicates that many of those involved were not from Seaham, having travelled in from other coastal areas where dispersal orders were already in force.”
Durham Police said it responded to reports of a “rowdy crowd of teenagers” congregating on the beach at Seaham Harbour Marina on Monday, where a 16-year-old boy was taken to hospital.
PSPOs can be introduced by the police to curb anti-social behaviour, including street drinking or intimidating gatherings.
“Any application is a detailed process requiring evidence and consultation, with final approval resting with Durham County Council – but it is a conversation I think is worth having, given what we’ve seen,” Cllr Fairs added.
Condemning the disruption caused to residents and visitors, councillors also urged local authorities to be more proactive in responding to incidents during the warmer weather.
Councillor Jack McGlenen, of Dalton and Dawdon ward, said: “Our community deserves to feel safe, respected, and listened to, and I will be pushing for action and answers on behalf of residents.”
Meanwhile, Cllr Andrew Harrison, Independent member for Seaham, said more must be done to prevent further issues.
The force also issued a warning after vapes thought to contain traces of a dangerous opioid drug were seized. Concerns were raised after ‘Mazza’ vapes were reportedly circulated among teenagers, which claim to contain THC, a main compound in a cannabis plant.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
