Underage drinking and feared drug abuse at a den near a new housing development in Brentwood, has sparked a councillor to spearhead a call for urgent action at the site.
Residents near the new housing development, Clements Park, are becoming increasingly concerned about the amount of youngsters drinking and possibly using drugs in an area of woodland at the junction of Crescent Road and Vaughan Williams Way.
Brentwood West representative, Cllr David Kendall, has been contacted by several residents and has now made a call for action by police to prevent the problem.
He raised his concerns at a Brentwood Police and Community Consultative Group meeting where police chiefs, residents and councillors discussed policing issues in the town.
More community policing, increased patrols of trouble hot spots and more police visibility would help prevent the problem according to the councillor.
But Section Inspector for Brentwood, Paul Spooner, says there has been few reported incidents but has agreed to increase the police attention the area receives.
Cllr Kendall, said: "I have been contacted by several residents from around that area who are becoming increasingly concerned that there is a den where youngsters are drinking and possibly using drugs.
"Noise nuisance and quality of life issues have also been highlighted by neighbours, especially elderly people who feel intimidated by groups of youngsters.
"Residents of the Clements Park development and other neighbours had several meetings with me and the lack of youth facilities were a key concern."
Insp Spooner has acknowledged the concerns of neighbours but has also made a call to residents to report incidents to the police.
He said: "I have spoken to the two officers who cover that area and they are aware of the concerns down there. The problems with youngsters are similar to the same problems suffered by residents all over the borough.
"Whilst I acknowledge the concerns the residents have, unless the problems are pointed out to police and there is evidence of drugs or underage drinking, then unfortunately we can't do anything.
"Though I am quite happy to increase the attention we give to the area."
Published Thursday, May 22, 2003
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