Safety fears over rising crime in city park

Residents have raised concerns about safety in a Peterborough park following increased reports of anti-social behaviour, thefts and dangerous riding.

Richard Strangward, a Labour councillor, said concerns had been voiced about Bretton Park, which is in his ward, after a 12-year-old boy had reportedly been attacked. A 14-year-old had also been assaulted nearby.

"We've had a lot of people come forward describing intimidation. Some say they've been told not to go into the park," he said.

Cambridgeshire Police said it was aware of the concerns in Bretton Park and the neighbourhood policing team had been monitoring the situation.

Strangward added: "We've got a lot of anti-social behaviour which is escalating and, if we don't do something soon, I think it will get worse."

Christopher Stanley, who lives in Eyrescroft, said he wanted to see more visible policing.

"I was forced to call the police when a motorbike carrying three young men in balaclavas nearly ran me and my dog over, then continued to chase me along the path while shouting abuse," he said.

"These bikes appear regularly, making everyone - especially those with children and dogs - feel uncomfortable and anxious.

"The park is a great place for young people, but there are concerns about alcohol and drug misuse among groups gathering in more secluded areas.

"We need a greater police presence to discourage this behaviour."

Another resident, Cathyrn Shipp, said there were "serious concerns" about drugs, litter and fly-tipping in and around the park.

Magda Juszczak added that the anti-social behaviour was "negatively affecting the quality of life" for residents and said she would "welcome stronger action" to address it.

John Bolton, a Reform UK city councillor who also represents Bretton, said: "A parish councillor was knocked over and taken to hospital, and an elderly woman was also struck, although she was not seriously injured.

"There have also been reports of assaults and thefts, and one resident said they found knives in the park."

Bolton said that although the park was "a very nice space", many residents "no longer feel safe" using it.

He is gathering evidence, including videos and witness accounts, to share with police and is calling for CCTV.

Strangward said the number of incidents pointed to a "major problem" and warned that stronger measures, including a Public Spaces Protection Order, may be needed.

A police spokesperson added: "We continue to encourage residents and park users to report incidents so we can plan patrols and set priorities accordingly."

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