Vale of Glamorgan council warn visitors after anti-social behaviour

Unfortunately, over the last few days as the weather has gotten warmer, there has been an increase in anti-social behaviour, especially at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park which has resulted in damage to areas of the park.

A number of disposable barbecues were not placed on safe surfaces or properly extinguished resulting in burns to grass, picnic benches and bins, including new accessible picnic benches which were only installed in recent weeks.

Large crowds were also reported at Barry Island, Penarth Esplanade and Ogmore earlier this week, and while the vast majority were well behaved, sadly some were not.

Litter left on Barry Island (Left picture: Amy Rae Pugh)

The council has received numerous reports of anti-social behaviour relating to littering and excessive alcohol consumption, and that people gathered in large numbers, breaking social distancing rules.

Joint Enforcement Teams, made up of police and council enforcement officers, will be out in force this weekend and have the power to issue financial penalties and take other action in response to such offences.

The position of both organisations is clear - anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated at Vale of Glamorgan resorts.

MORE NEWS:

•  BBC, ITV and more - The best shows to watch available over Easter
•  Behind the scenes of the Penarth location used in Eddie Izzard's new film

If visiting the park, please remember:

• Open fires are not permitted anywhere in the country park
• Cyclists are reminded to only use cycle paths or bridleways
• Litter should be placed in the bins provided or taken home
• Swimming in the lakes is prohibited
• Motor vehicles are prohibited within the park

Cllr Neil Moore, Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council said: “The last year has been tough on everyone. We have needed to stay inside for long periods, so I fully understand people’s desire to visit our coastal locations now that restrictions are starting to ease.

“What’s more, we are delighted to welcome them – but only if they can behave in a considerate manner, showing respect for the resorts, residents and other visitors.

“If that’s not possible, if you are intent on drinking too much, littering, or engaging in any other form of anti-social behaviour, my message is simple: Stay at home. Don’t come to the Vale because we don’t want you here.”

The council increases its cleansing activities during the summer when greater visitor numbers are expected.

Barry Island beach is raked and a litter pick carried out every morning, while extra litter picking is undertaken on weekends and evenings in all resorts. Staff are also on patrol to dispose of rubbish during the day.

Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan Chief Inspector Tony Williams said: “Throughout the pandemic, we have worked closely with our local authority partners to keep our communities safe and that approach will continue heading into the bank holiday.

“Increased patrols will be carried out in key areas, and we will continue to liaise with the local authority and Welsh Government to consider implementation of measures which further enable us to keep our communities safe.

“We appreciate the past year has been tough on us all, and with the recent relaxation to travel restrictions and improved weather we fully expect some of our beauty spots to busier.

“I would, however, appeal to the public to take a sensible approach and to continue supporting the restrictions that do remain in place, in order to keep us all safe.

“Those breaching the regulations or engaging in ASB and criminality can expect to be subject to enforcement action.”