A BARRIER which was installed at one of the busiest car parks in Colchester to deter anti-social activity has been hailed a success.
The night-time barrier was installed at St Mary's car park in June 2024 to deter anti-social behaviour (ASB).
CCTV was also put in place to secure the premises from entry after 10pm overnight on Friday and Saturday evenings.
The barriers at St Mary’s car park in Balkerne Hill were removed in 2016.
Since the barriers were removed residents complained of many instances of people racing around the car park late at night.
Colchester Council ruled out the option to shut the car park overnight and instead opted for the barrier to be reintroduced.
They now seem to be reaping the rewards as ASB seems to have massively decreased.
A spokesperson said: “Since the barrier was introduced, along with enhanced patrols, CCTV, and increased fixed penalty notices, we’ve seen a clear and sustained reduction in reported incidents at this location.
"Our ongoing internal monitoring, including reviews of anti-social behaviour reports and feedback from resident associations, indicates a significant drop in complaints over the past year.
"We remain committed to ensuring the car park continues to be a safe and welcoming space for both residents and visitors and will keep the situation under regular review.”
St Mary’s residents association secretary, Emma Dell has been delighted over the determent of the barrier.
She said: “Absolutely we’ve seen a decrease in anti-social behaviour at the car park since the barrier was introduced.
“I don’t think I have been told of any reports from residents in the car park since the barrier was introduced.
“I’ve had no reports of anything such as car noise or drug dealing which is great.
“There are obviously groups of kids coming out of college hanging around everywhere but this isn’t anti-social behaviour.
“I’m really impressed we have got the action, but what I will say is it was ridiculous it took so long for it to be reinstated, and it was just me constantly fighting.
“But we got there in the end.”
Share