Paisley Daily Express Column

With the longer summer nights anti-social behaviour by a few can spoil the evenings for everyone. I wanted to let Buddies know their rights if they experience antisocial behaviour.

The Scottish Executive has required all councils to come up with a local anti-social behaviour strategy and Renfrewshire’s Anti-Social Behaviour Strategy was formally launched last December. It details how the Council, Strathclyde Police and other partner organisations will develop services to tackle the problem of anti-social behaviour in Renfrewshire.

This year Renfrewshire Council has been awarded £1.8 million from the Scottish Executive to specifically tackle anti-social behaviour. The funding is intended to support a number of existing and new services aimed at preventing and tackling anti-social behaviour in Renfrewshire.

The main enforcement measures, which are now being employed in Renfrewshire, include:

• The ASIST team. This is the first point of contact for those facing anti-social behaviour.

• The Litter Enforcement Team – Officers currently enforce Environmental Protection legislation in response to litter and fly-tipping complaints.

• ASIST Youth Service Team – Acting upon anti-social behaviour in the under 16-age group.

• Illegal Dumping Initiative – When the offenders or the owners of the land can be identified, enforcement action can follow.

• Control of dogs – Dedicated Animal Warden to enforce the control of stray dogs and encourage owners to clean up after their pets.

• Bans on street drinking – The consumption of alcohol can be prohibited in public places designated by the Council. The police can also take action through tighter enforcement of restrictions on sale of alcohol to children; and by closing disorderly licensed premises.

It is important that local people make use of the available services and encourage good citizenship in our communities by reporting inappropriate behaviour and assisting the Council and the Police to take action.

This week marks National Park week. There is nothing more enjoyable than recharging your batteries by packing up a picnic with friends and family and heading out to one of the National Parks to enjoy some fresh air. We are lucky here in the west of Scotland to be so close to the stunning Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. However we are also well served locally by Robertson and Barshaw parks here in Renfrewshire. Why not take an afternoon and rediscover the delights right on your doorstep!