A NEW zero-tolerance approach on crime will come into force in Blake Gardens after a string of complaints about abusive drinkers and anti-social behaviour.

Many people said the onceattractive park had been taken over by drinkers and drug users with some taking substances in broad daylight.

There were also complaints about groups of youths causing antisocial behaviour.

Many wrote on the Bridgwater Mercury Facebook page recently that the park was pretty much a no-go area for families with children, due to gangs of yobs as well as abusive drinkers.

Police are now promising a zero-tolerance approach to stamp out noise and nuisance with daily patrols and say they will clampdown on any illegal activity and anti-social behaviour.

The zero-tolerance approach includes: Officers continuing with high visibility patrols on a daily basis.

A clamp down on alcohol consumption, anti-social behaviour, uncontrolled animals, legal highs, litter and noise. Sedgemoor District Council dog wardens will patrol the area to ensure that dogs aren’t running lose and owners are picking up after dog fouling, or say fines will be issued.

CCTV of the gardens will continue to be closely monitored as a priority area. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue will do regular routine checks at the park to assess potential fire hazards.

Officers are also launching a fortnightly beat surgery in the library for locals to raise their concerns starting tomorrow (Wednesday) between and 10am and noon. The surgery will then be held every other Wednesday in a room just off the main library foyer.

Avon and Somerset Police recently arrested a male in his late 50s for drinking alcohol in the park. The male refused to hand over his alcohol which ended in him being arrested.

The man was later charged and bailed to the magistrates’ court. Sergeant Elaine Linham said: “This multi-agency approach means that we have been able identify some positive steps to make the park a more enjoyable space for our community.

It makes sense to adopt a coordinated approach to ensure Blake Gardens feels safe and welcoming for all.”

To broaden the use of the park and encourage physical activity Sedgemoor District Council is offering free hula hoop sessions in Blake Gardens on June 1, July 20 and August 13 between 12.30 and 1pm.
Sedgemoor District Council will also install a post box inside the library for members of the public to raise their concerns.
This will be installed by the date of the first beat surgery.
A spokesman for Sedgemoor District Council said: “It is important that the local community and visitors are able to use the park without feeling intimidated.

Concerns are often expressed through informal channels, such as onsocial media , we strongly encourage such reports are made to us or Avon and Somerset Police directly.”