MORE foot patrols are being brought in by a council in a bid to stamp out antisocial behaviour after a spate of graffiti in retaliation to controversial proposals appeared on a disused leisure centre.

It was reported earlier this month how disgruntled vandals had left messages including 'Public land', 'Not for sale', 'Property of the People' and 'Shame on council' on River Park Leisure Centre.

READ MORE: River Park Leisure Centre site disposal

Civic chiefs at Winchester City Council are now analysing public objections to its plans to dispose and transfer the land and facilities to Southampton University, which were sidetracked after it admitted it had not followed correct procedure by failing to consult on its plans.

The deadline for feedback from the belated consultation was Friday, January 4.

Fears for the future of the skate park have sparked an online petition with has attracted 3,000 names, and the recent graffiti was yet a further message of disapproval from those who are trying to resist the move.

In response to the vandalism, the city council met with police and has said it is now increasing foot patrols in the area to try and snare any further antisocial kickbacks.

SEE MORE: 'Shame on Council' graffiti on River Park Leisure Centre in Winchester

A spokesperson for Winchester City Council said: "Tackling antisocial behaviour in the Winchester district is of great importance to us and we’re working to address this problem in our community. We have been made aware of the issues of antisocial behaviour, criminal damage and graffiti around the skate park in North Walls.

"This issue was discussed at our antisocial behaviour panel meeting and a multi-agency meeting. We will continue to work in partnership by information sharing and increasing our uniformed high visible patrols in the area for reassurance. It is important that members of the public report issues in real time as incidents occur."

The move also comes as part of a joint effort from police and the council to reduce antisocial crime across the city.

Winchester Police had previously asked residents to outline areas they believe should be the focus of attention in a message to the public on social media.

Antisocial behaviour can be reported to Hampshire Constabulary via the non-emergency number, 101, or to Winchester City Council's Neighbourhood Services Officer on 01962 848 275.

Alternatively, residents can log the behaviour online at Winchester.gov.uk/report.

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Kimberley Barber