BLAENAU Gwent MP Nick Smith has called on Gwent Police to take action over anti-social behaviour and dangerous driving being reported in Tredegar.
Mr Smith has been receiving reports about cars being driven at high speeds along the bypass between Georgetown and the Crown Inn as well as anti-social behaviour in the car parks near Bank Lane.
The issue was brought to Mr Smith’s attention by local councillors Tommy Smith and Bernard Willis, who explained that dangerous drivers have also been seen racing in the town centre and some surrounding housing estates.
Mr Smith also received information from a constituent who described anti-social behaviour taking place in the town centre – namely the car parks near the shopping centre and Bank Lane.
Mr Smith received a letter describing “boy racers” congregating in the carparks “wheel spinning”  and “playing loud music, revving engines and generally disturbing the peace” from as early as 7pm and into the early hours.
He said that he had been unsuccessful in getting the police to attend the area and also in his calls for the car park to be locked at night.

Mr Smith wrote to Gwent Police and received a reply explaining that vehicle-based anti-social behaviour has been made a Your Voice priority for the area in question and that officers are patrolling the area.

He was also informed that Tredegar officers are seeking assistance from Area Support Officers to help deal with traffic offences, although this is difficult as the team covers the entire West Gwent area and are only available if not tasked with other incidents.

Mr Smith has now written back to Gwent Police to seek further clarification.
Mr Smith said: “Youths congregating in cars and using our streets like a race track do not only pose a very serious threat to the lives of safe drivers and pedestrians but can make life a hell for those affected by the noise nuisance that often goes hand in hand with such anti-social behaviour.
“This is a serious issue that needs addressing.
“I was pleased to learn that Gwent Police had identified this problem in Tredegar as a priority concern for residents.
“I have now asked for confirmation that Area Support Officers have been approached and want to know what level of support they have been able to provide and whether this has resulted in any arrests.
“I have also pressed for a more specific response and action to be taken in and around the Bank Lane car park.”