A LEADING Thurrock councillor is calling on the police to instigate more patrols in local parks and open spaces following an increase in anti-social behaviour.

As reported on Thurrock Nub News yesterday (Wednesday, 24 June) local residents have been increasingly concerned about the amount of litter being left in parks and the problems associated with young people – including use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas).

Today, Corringham and Fobbing ward councillor Aaron Watkins, who sits on the ruling cabinet where he holds the portfolio for the environment, said he and Conservative colleagues on the council in the east of the borough are calling on the police to increase patrols over the parks and open spaces.

He says: "With the warmer weather seeing larger groups coming together. SS17 Conservatives are aware of resident's concerns, regarding increased numbers of groups, especially those younger, who are gathering together within parks, breaking social distancing rules and potentially using illegal drugs such as nitrous oxide canisters.

"Simply - to those who are littering and causing trouble in parks - if you have litter, put it in a bin or take it with you and throw that litter away at home. Please don't litter the parks. Equally, respect that you aren't the only ones using the park, and don't spoil it for other people by using parks for the wrong reasons.

"An overwhelming majority of people use the parks safely, and for the right reasons, and it is right that parks are safe, fun and clean to use.

"We have thanked the council for continuing to clean up the mess people leave and are aware of the fantastic job the street cleaning teams are doing, while exploring what more can be done. We are aware also calling for the enforcement officers to patrol the parks to use available powers to enforce where possible.

"And we are calling on the police, to instigate more patrols around our parks to help crackdown on illegal drug usage, educate users on the dangers they possess and ensure people are being safe during this difficult time."