ANTI-SOCIAL teenagers gather at a pumping station in a popular park, make noise, use drugs, and drink alcohol.
Problems with the pumping station – based in Arthur Stevens Field, Benfleet – have bothered park users and residents of the site, Essex police say.
Ian Risden, acting police sergeant for the Castle Point and Rochford Community Police Team, says the park has seen problems with off-road motorcycles and scrambler bikes as well.
Appleton Town Councilor Tom Skipp fears the problem could affect dog walkers as well.
Mr Skipp said: “It is worrying to hear that people do this. There is of course a potential for noise, but one also has to think about the chaos it leaves behind and which then needs to be cleaned up.
“It’s also very popular with dog owners and it’s not very nice for them to walk by.”
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PC Risden added, “This is such a well-used park so it will have an impact on people. If there are groups of teenagers around, users may opt for a wide route if they feel uncomfortable walking by.
“I’m not saying they are all troublemakers, but it is clear from reports we have that people are congregating, using drugs and drinking, and improper use of off-road motorcycles in the area.
“This is two meters from people’s homes and some use inappropriate language.”
Officials are now encouraging the public to use the free what3words app, which can help them know the exact location of the anti-social behavior or crime occurs.
With what3words, PC Risden even managed to find the location of the pumping station.
Mr Risden said, “We were looking for the exact place where they gathered, we knew it was the field but not exactly where.
“But the app also means that we can find people who may need help, for example if they are stuck in the mudflats at Canvey. I can’t emphasize how important it is for emergency services, you never know when you need it. ”
An Essex Police Department spokesman added, “This what3words reference will be added to the patrol plan.”
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