SafeAyr Shore initiative launched

Jul 10 2009

POLICE have teamed up with South Ayrshire Council to improve safety at Ayr shore.

The SafeAyr Shore Initiative was launched this week to combat crime and antisocial behaviour in the area.

It’s the third year that South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership has targeted the esplanade during the height of the summer.

And superintendent John Hazlett insists that it will improve safety.

He said: “Strathclyde Police, in conjunction with South Ayrshire Council and the Community Safety Partnership, is taking part in this very successful initiative during the months of July and August.

“Additional police officers will be patrolling the Ayr esplanade area throughout the weekends to ensure that this popular area remains safe and secure for local residents and summer visitors.”

Vandalism dropped by 66 per cent last year, while 69 people were reported for drinking in public. A further 20 were charged with motoring offences and 12 were arrested on drug charges.

Partnership chairman Councillor Nan McFarlane said: “The SafeAyr Shore Initiative was very successful again last year thanks to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved, and we intend to build on that success this year.

“Ayr esplanade is enjoyed by local people and visitors to the area. Our aim would be to turn around the antisocial behaviour of the few who can ruin the enjoyment of others.

“It is important to remember that a lot of people live in the area of the esplanade and the initiative also aims to make sure that residents have a trouble-free summer.”