More actions needs to be taken to tackle a rise in anti-social behaviour in a Crieff, it has been claimed.
Concerns began to grow after weapons including a samurai sword and a crossbow, alongside an “unknown white powder” and cash were seized by police earlier this month.
Crieff resident Craig Finlay has approached the Perth and Kinross Council Safer Communities Team following discussion with residents.
The former chairman of Crieff Community Council believes having council wardens present within the town may help.
“Over the past few weeks, I’ve listened to several people tell me about problems of anti-social behaviour in their street.
“When added together, these various incidents do point to a possible problem in the town, which is affecting many residents who often have anxiety and interrupted sleep.
“I’ve spoken with Perth and Kinross Council and its Safer Communities Team will soon be working to support residents who are affected.”
Meanwhile, Mr Finlay plans to hold a drop-in event in the town early next month to further allow locals to voice their concerns.
Members of the council’s Safer Communities Team will also be present to address concerns and answer questions.
Mr Finlay will set up a marquee in the town at Old St Michael’s Churchyard on September 5 between 10am and 2pm.
A spokesperson for the local authority said: “Our Safer Communities Wardens will carry out patrols where there are concerns about anti-social behaviour.
“We would be happy to attend any community meeting to discuss any concerns people may have.
“More generally, we would advise any residents of Perth and Kinross experiencing antisocial behaviour in their community to report such incidents to the Police – either by calling 101 if it is a non-emergency situation, or otherwise if there is a serious disturbance, by calling 999.”
Mr Finlay’s efforts to tackle the issue in the town has been praised been local councillor, Stewart Donaldson.
Mr Donaldson, who represents the Strathearn ward, said: “Clearly, we have to continue to be alert to problems of anti-social behaviour and of drug abuse in Crieff.
!I know that the Police and the Safer Communities Team at the Council take action wherever possible, but if they are to be effective they depend so much on information from the public.
“That is why I welcome the initiative by Craig Finlay and the Team at the Friends of Old St.Michael’s to hold a drop-in event on Saturday, 5th September.
“I’m certainly going to be there, and there ought to be quite a bit of useful information available and people to talk to about the concerns that local people have.”
