Crackdown on Bus Terminus anti-social behaviour coming

Monday 25 June 2018

Guernsey Police have told Express they are actively working with other agencies to tackle reported problems at the main bus terminus at the Albany in St Peter Port.

There have been numerous reports posted on social media in recent weeks of anti-social behaviour at the rank, with groups of young people, including teenagers and young adults, gathering at the bus stop socially.

Express was told by a business owner in the area who wished to remain anonymous, that officers have been called to the terminus on a number of occasions to deal with fights, abusive language, underage drinking and other issues.

When approached by Express, Guernsey Police said while there have been allegations of anti-social behaviour, often the young people are not doing anything wrong in the eyes of the law. 

Superintendent Phil Breban said: "our Neighbourhood Policing Team are actively working with other agencies to tackle this issue from all sides, as often the actions of the young people present are bordering on anti-social but there are not always offences occurring."

The different organisations involved in tackling the issues include the Guernsey Youth Commission, Youth Justice and Action for Children which Superintendent Breban said "are all on board with outreach work and setting up diversionary activities".

"We are also working closely with CT Plus and the Parish Constables."

Guernsey Police said it had sympathy with people who have raised concerns about behaviour in the area, with a number saying they feel intimidated and some saying they now try and avoid the area.

"Due to the numbers of young people who gather in the area, we understand how their behaviour can be intimidating to other users of the area at times, and we sympathise with the concerns of the public," Superintendent Breban said, adding, "we do get a few complaints when an incident takes place, however when Police are present the behaviour rarely occurs."

Express was told police officers are often seen in the area, but Guernsey Police said they cannot be there all the time. Superintendent Breban said it would not be possible, but he did say increased police presence in the area has led to a number of arrests.

"Although logistically we are unable to have a permanent Police presence in the area, patrols have been stepped up.  A number of arrests have been made and due to the age of the individuals concerned, these have been referred to the Children’s Convenor."

Superintendent Breban also said it is the responsibility of parents and carers to ensure their children are behaving appropriately.

"Generally a small minority of young people are causing these issues and we would ask that parents or carers ensure that they are aware of where their children are going, who with and what time they will be back."