Play park fence fears

4:32pm Wednesday 4th June 2008

Comments (8)   Have your say »

A CHILDREN'S play park in York will end up resembling a prisoner-of-war camp if new high-security fencing is put up, a councillor has warned.

Councillors and park managers are to consider putting up a higher fence and lockable gate at the play area on Rawcliffe recreation ground, in an attempt to curb antisocial behaviour and underage drinking in the area.

But local councillor Joe Watt voiced concern. He said: "We do not want it to become like a prisoner-of-war camp, which the comments you get when you talk about putting a high fence round it.

"There are only two options - put up the fence, or remove the whole play park altogether.

"That second option appears not to be palatable to many people, so we have no option but to go for the fence."

The recreation ground has long been a trouble spot in Rawcliffe. Although the play-area is well used by young children during the day, older youths gather in the evenings, and are a cause for concern locally.

Councillors have now agreed to apply for funding to put gates at entrances to the ground, to stop vehicles getting in, and they have also agreed to consult local people on the possibility of building a youth shelter for the teenagers.

Jane Mowat, director of Safer York Partnership, told the meeting of councillors that she had not dismissed the idea of the shelter, but added: "My experience is that if you involve young people in that process, you tend to have more success than if you just impose it on them."

Meanwhile, councillors have agreed to adopt Dead Man's Alley, in Clifton, which should pave the way for more regular maintenance and better upkeep.

The alley, which runs between Clifton Green shops and Clifton Green Primary School has existed for more than 150 years, but was not on City of York Council's list of adopted streets.

Councillors agreed to rectify the omission, and will now be able to ensure it is properly lit and maintained.

The meeting also agreed to proceed with plans to lock an alleyway in Dringhouses, that has become a hotspot for antisocial behaviour and petty crime.

The lane, between Mayfield Grove and St Helen's Road, is well used during the day, but is a source of trouble at night. The council now wants to use new legislation to lock it overnight.

Local councillor Tom Holvey welcomed the decision, and added: "Hopefully the council will move forward quickly with the order and ensure the gates are installed as soon as possible, we will continue to work with local residents to overcome any obstacles."