Earlier closing time trialled at Stone arcade following antisocial behaviour concerns

A Stone shopping area entrance is set to be closed earlier each night in a bid to deter antisocial behaviour.

Police have received reports of issues including damaged stock at the arcade which runs between Stone High Street and the B&M car park on Crown Street, town councillors heard at their meeting on Tuesday 3 March.

The rear arcade shutter at the car park entrance, which is currently closed at 9pm each evening, PCSO Neil Moffatt told the meeting. But an earlier closing time is being trialled on a temporary basis.

In a letter to local businesses, shared with town councillors at Tuesday’s meeting, Stone PC Charlotte Duncan said:

“In response to a recent increase in antisocial behaviour occurring during the evening hours, the police, in partnership with local stakeholders, will be trialling an early closure of the shutter leading to the car park. The shutter will close at 1800 hrs each day.

“This measure will be in place for an initial one-month trial period, during which we will closely monitor its impact on antisocial behaviour and overall safety within the arcade.

“The purpose of this trial is to reduce opportunities for disorder and improve the environment for businesses, staff and members of the public. We recognise the importance of maintaining accessibility for legitimate users and we will review feedback from businesses throughout the trial.”

PCSO Moffatt also told Stone Town Council members that ‘Cuppa with a Copper’ community events were continuing in the area for residents wishing to raise concerns or have a chat with officers. Following previous sessions at Costa, Starbucks and M&S, the next one will be held at Bod in Stone High Street on Monday, March 9, from 10am to 12pm.

Last year police focussed their efforts on tackling antisocial behaviour and violence in the town centre and Westbridge Park. Activities included patrols with staff from Alleyne’s Academy.

Town councillor Robert Townsend, speaking at Tuesday’s meeting, asked: “Can you give us any feedback on the situation at Westbridge Park and its reputation?”

PCSO Moffatt responded: “The reputation I hope will get better with less issues. The problem with Westbridge Park is it’s in a lovely place like Stone and incidents easily become big news.

“Police have to deal with mis-information; if things are happening people will speculate and sometimes things get exaggerated. But we can’t always say what is happening – we don’t want to ruin an investigation.”

It was also questioned if Stone had a shoplifting issue. PCSO Moffatt said:

“There is a problem everywhere, but you haven’t got a problem in Stone with shoplifting compared to Stafford and places like Queen’s Retail Park.

“We have been working with B&M to get stock inside the shop. The prolific shoplifters have been issued with criminal behaviour orders.”