Extra patrols as police target anti-social groups in Kirkcaldy's parks

‘High risk’ status after complaints from residents
Anti-social behaviour is again hitting Dunnikier Park, KirkcaldyAnti-social behaviour is again hitting Dunnikier Park, Kirkcaldy
Anti-social behaviour is again hitting Dunnikier Park, Kirkcaldy

Police have stepped up patrols at Dunnikier Park in Kirkcaldy in a bid to curb the latest outbreak of anti-social behaviour in the area.

They have classed it as ‘high risk’ in response to complaints from local residents concerned at the noise from quad bikes, and the conduct of teenagers using it as a meeting place.

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Police are also adding extra patrols at Beveridge Park where Kirkcaldy Rugby Club’s stand has become a focal point once more for anti-social behaviour.

This debris from 2019 is typical of the mess being found again at Dunnikier ParkThis debris from 2019 is typical of the mess being found again at Dunnikier Park
This debris from 2019 is typical of the mess being found again at Dunnikier Park

The moves have been welcomed by Neale Hanvey, MP for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath, but he wants to see them as part of a wider response to the problem which has grown since lockdown.

Police revealed this week that anti-social behaviour had rocketed by 46% in recent months - and the rise was put down the calls made to police over abuses of COVID-19 regulations.

Both parks have a history of problems, with Dunnikier also struggling to curb the noise and menace posed by quad bikes roaming freely along its paths and grassy areas.

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Residents at Dunnikier Park chalet park have noted the growing numbers of teens using the viewing platform to gather, drink and play music.

They say social distancing isn’t observed, and masks which are used are simply thrown away.

David and Margaret Morris, who live at the park, highlighted fights breaking out, fires being set, and smashed glass and debris left abandoned.

Huge branches are also being left across paths - possibly to create obstacle courses for quad bike riders - while they have witnessed young girls so drunk they cannot stand up.

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They added: ““It can be intimidating to walk past large groups of shouting youths while trying to stay away from the scramble bikes, so this results in us not using this area for evening exercise.”

At Beveridge Park, Kirkcaldy Rugby Club officials have faced similar mess as a result of youths using their open stand.

Dr J Graeme Hannah, club president of Kirkcaldy Rugby Football Club, said its young players encountered empty drug packets beer cans, broken bottles, and even a used prgenancy test kit.

He added: “The noise the previous night from the stand has upset the neighbours, and police were called, it’s the same groups of culprits each time.

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“This stand was clean the previous day after a senior game. The coaches and helpers once again swept and hosed it stand clean, and picked up the broken glass and rubbish - they do this nearly every Saturday or Sunday morning.

"We have tried to engage with the culprits on a number of occasions, unsuccessfully, but we will persevere.

“We see a bright future for Kirkcaldy Rugby Football Club, local clubs and community, and we won’t let anyone prevent that from happening. We will pursue every avenue we can to achieve these aims.

“The unpleasantness, abuse and vandalism will not prevent our members enjoying rugby, or the ethos and values it brings.”

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The club and residents have the backing of the town’s MP, who wants to see a different approach.

He has spoken with Police Scotland, but says they are just one part of the response to drive out the anti-social element.

Mr Hanvey highlighted a project in North Tyneside that has led to a 40 percent reduction in youth disorder.

Project Vita has joined policing and interventions by the council’s community protection team, with workshops for young people and positive activities such as sports and community groups.

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Mr Hanvey said: “There’s been an increase in antisocial behaviour across the constituency, if the cases coming into my office are anything to go by. We need to think creatively about how we address the problem.

“It’s an issue that’s been going on for years – even as far back to when I was young. So, it’s clear to me that if we monitor antisocial behaviour in one area, usually this just shifts the problem elsewhere.

“That’s why we need a joined-up and constructive response to the issue. If young folk are making a noise and causing damage, we must ask why. What are the root causes? Is it a lack of youth facilities, the psychological impact of coronavirus, a lack of support at home, and are these young folk at risk of going down the wrong path?

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“Tackling these questions honestly is essential to stopping the issue now and in the future.

“As they’ve shown in North Tyneside, the best approach is to work constructively with young folk, help them to understand the consequence of their actions, and support them in making more positive decisions moving forward.

“But the young people responsible for this antisocial behaviour need to also remember that ultimately the police can and will deal with the issue directly. Do they really want to be taken home in a police car or, worse still, face a criminal charge?”

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