Police reveal how they've clamped down on gatherings at Sheffield park after criticism
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Former Sheffield councillor John Hesketh wrote to South Yorkshire’s Chief Constable, Stephen Watson and the city council’s Chief Executive, Kate Josephs, over his concerns about mass gatherings, crime, littering and anti-social behaviour at Bolehills in Crookes.
Mr Hesketh sent two letters last month in response to what he described as a ‘rolling party,’ with crowds gathering most nights at that time.
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Hide AdOn one night two DJs even set up decks to entertain groups gathered there.
He said underage drinking, drug taking, noise, littering and anti-social behaviour were becoming commonplace.
Mr Hesketh said it was normal for between 100 and 400 people to gather at the beauty spot most nights and he urged the authorities to take action.
In response, Sgt Simon Kirkham, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “Since the initial complaints were received in relation to anti-social behaviour at Bolehills, the local neighbourhood team have been working with Sheffield City Council to address the issues raised.
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Hide Ad“Officers have been carrying out increased patrols and as a result of these patrols, reports of anti-social behaviour have significantly reduced.
“The team will maintain a presence at peak times to ensure any emerging issues relating to anti-social behaviour are quickly addressed and effectively managed.”
Last month, there was outrage at the size of the crowds which gathered at Endcliffe Park in Sheffield when lockdown restrictions were eased and temperatures soared.
An emergency clean-up operation had to be mounted the following day.