Police act against schoolchildren 'out of control' in Neath's multi-storey car park

CHILDREN are said to be running out of control in a Neath town centre car park every day after finishing school.

They are reportedly riding their skateboards up and down the multi-storey car park, shouting and swearing at people, and spitting chewing gum from the roof to the street below.

Police are taking a hard line against the young troublemakers after getting numerous complaints from passers-by, traders and town councillors.

They have warned the culprits will not be let off with a slap on the wrist and will face arrest if their behaviour warrants it.

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Town centre beat manager PC Martyn Langan said: "It occurs at 4pm on a daily basis, and at various times at weekends. It's quite obviously being worked around school time.

"We are having reports of youths, male and female, hanging around the car park and riding around on skateboards, shouting and swearing, throwing things off the top of the car park and generally upsetting the local community.

"They are riding skateboards around the car park, which is quite dangerous in itself.

"We have also had complaints of objects being thrown or dropped off the roof, and there is evidence of chewing gum being spat out onto the street below.

"It is general antisocial behaviour and the local community and the daytime economy are being affected by it."

Police say the car park has become an after-school meeting place for up to 12 youths who are then running out of control.

Sector inspector Huw Griffiths said: "We are sending officers there on a daily basis.

"School liaison officers have also been tasked with highlighting the issue of antisocial behaviour.

"We are working closely with CCTV operators within the local authority to continually monitor the situation.

"Officers have been told to take a positive stance. If they see any offences being committed, they will be dealt with.

"Depending on the offence, they could be arrested.

"It won't be just a slap on the wrist."

Mr Griffiths said there had been complaints from Neath Town Council, the public and the business community.

"It has reached the point where it simply will not be tolerated any longer," he added.