Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies joined police on the streets in Rhyl Town Centre last month to find out more about the problems they are having to deal with and to discuss actions being taken to address antisocial and intimidating behaviour.
James has long emphasised the need to take a firm approach to tackle these issues and has been working with local police on this agenda.
He was therefore pleased to join officers on patrol in Rhyl in October to gain a clear understanding of the problems on the ground.
Speaking afterwards, he said:
“Anti-social behaviour is a problem that is frequently raised with me by constituents and I am therefore very keen that every action necessary is taken to get it under control.
“In recent times, we have seen issues at Rhyl’s Botanical Gardens with antisocial youths who were being abusive, causing criminal damage to the gardens, and intimidating local residents. With firm action from the police, the problems there have been improved and this needs to be the approach going forward.
“Those responsible for this type of behaviour need to know that it simply won’t be tolerated.
“Anti-social behaviour is sometimes referred to as "low-level crime", but its impact on a town can be extensive.
“Rhyl’s success relies heavily on tourism and we need to be doing everything we possibly can to guarantee that the town is appealing to visitors, not to mention locals.”
During meetings with the Chief Constable of North Wales Police, Carl Foulkes, James regularly emphasises the need for a firm line to be taken in areas in the constituency, such as Rhyl town centre and West Rhyl, where overlooking antisocial behaviour has sometimes become commonplace.
He added:
“It is not an easy problem to address, and I commend the Rhyl policing team’s continued efforts to get it under control.
“If Rhyl is to truly get back on its feet, then we must ensure the town centre is a welcoming and safe environment to visit and I will continue working with the police to achieve this.”
