Councillors are considering if a pilot scheme to tackle anti-social behaviour at the River Park Leisure Centre site should be extended.

Cllr John Tippett-Cooper told Winchester Town Forum that the two-month scheme to have private security patrols at the site was successful, but that it was still a difficult issue.

This comes after 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 HERE: Graffiti at closed River Park Leisure Centre

Cllr Tippett-Cooper said: “We're currently piloting a two-month trial for a private security firm to patrol the River Park site and tackle anti-social behaviour. There does seem to be some curbing, but not complete. It's a difficult problem. The longer the old leisure centre stays dilapidated, the worse it will get.

“Everyone's noticed the increase in graffiti in the area. New equipment had been purchased to tackle graffiti more effectively. Something the forum will have to consider is if we keep the security in place after the pilot. I suspect their will be a great deal of support to keep it in place.”

SEE ALSO: 'Shame on Council' graffiti at River Park Leisure Centre

 

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