Over 300 people have their say in probe into anti-social behaviour in Hartlepool

Hartlepool Borough Council Audit and Governance Committee agreed in July to carry out an investigation into anti-social behaviour in the town in a bid to crackdown on the issue.

As part of the work a town-wide survey on experiences of anti-social behaviour has been carried out, which has now closed with over 370 responses received.

Councillors hailed the responses from residents on the topic and added the findings will be revealed in a report in the new year.

Coun Ged Hall, committee chair, said: “I think that’s a phenomenal response from residents in Hartlepool.

“I think after the recent consultations in the town, people are going the extra mile at the moment, and it will go towards investigating and reporting back to residents in Hartlepool.”

The survey involved asking residents if they had experienced anti-social behaviour over the past six months and what incidents they have experienced.

It also included residents having the chance to comment on who they reported the issue to and their experiences and happiness during the reporting process, which will all make up part of the committees wider investigation.

The year-long investigation into the issue has also included talks from various bodies including the police and fire authority, along with days of action in the town.

The council has hosted a variety of drop-in sessions on the topic, along with workshops for young people and other groups in the community.

Councillors will also be carrying out several more events in the new year before bringing together their findings from the anti-social behaviour investigation.

These include taking part in the Cleveland Police ride along scheme and viewing a premise closure operation.

They will also look to have interviews with residents who have reported incidents and a selection of perpetrators of anti-social behaviour.

A further report fully detailing the outcome of the consultation will be presented at the Audit and Governance Committee meeting on January 9,2020.