Troublemaking youngsters are being warned a former school site is "not a playground" after reports if trespassing and anti-social behaviour. Police say they are working with the local authority to keep the old Newark High School site, known as the Lilley and Stone site, on London road "effectively secured"
Inspector Charlotte Ellam, who has just returned to the role of district commander for Newark and Sherwood, says tackling problems at the site remains a priority, as youngsters can find themselves in danger. She said: "We have unfortunately continued to have reports of young people entering the site of the old Newark High School and causing ASB [anti-social behaviour].
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"We are working with NSDC (Newark and Sherwood District Council) and the fire service to ensure that the site is effectively secured as soon as possible, however I must reiterate there are numerous hazards in an around the building. It is not a playground and anyone treating it as such is putting themselves in danger. I would implore parents and guardians to ensure this message is passed on to any young people in your care."
Other priorities for police in Newark include looking at anti-social behaviour, violence against women and girls and nuisance vehicles. Insp Ellam continued: "As the summer months approach, I would anticipate we will see some issues around our parks and open spaces. Historically we have had complaints relating to wildlife crime, disorderly behaviour, and fire setting.
"So, we will be focusing on these areas, alongside our on going ASB problem solving which forms part of our daily business." Regarding violence against women and girls, Inspector Ellam stated: "This is something that is firmly on the agenda in terms of our wider force priorities, and in terms of the national interest.
"I feel that it is really important that Newark & Sherwood are part of the progress towards making our streets feel safer and more inclusive for all individuals who may fear harassment, unwanted attention, or violence. We have some great work going on which I am looking forward to being able to tell you about in the coming months."
She also shared that the force has been receiving "frequent reports across the area relating to nuisance vehicles on the streets and in our open spaces." Inspector Ellam explained: "This can range from car cruise meetings to off road bikes and e-scooters.
"Many of these activities are not only disruptive but also extremely dangerous and as a Neighbourhood team we recognise why they cause so much concern locally." In addition to these priorities for the force, it was also announced that two new beat managers have joined the team for the town centre.
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