Police in Aberdeen have set up dedicated patrols in a busy shopping centre to tackle the problem of antisocial youths.
Union Square’s bosses and security team have teamed up with police to crackdown on young people being a nuisance for shoppers in and around the mall.
It is understood the patrols launched earlier this month as a response to a higher number of youths congregating at the shopping centre over the school holidays.
Dustin Macdonald, the chairman of the city centre community council, said: “The Easter Holidays brought a larger presence of youths, and they were causing trouble.
“The police were brought in to help boost the security at Union Square to get across the message that this kind of behaviour – be it from young people or anybody else – will not be tolerated in any way.”
Councillor Martin Greig, chairman of the Aberdeen Community Safety Partnership, welcomed the patrols.
He said: “A shopping centre is usually a very safe and peaceful environment, and Union Square is a very popular and busy place.
“As is so often the case, large crowds of people can encourage disorderly behaviour, even within the controlled atmosphere of a shopping centre, so it is very positive that the security arrangements are being boosted by the additional police presence.
“It is vital that people should feel safe wherever they are in the city. This is a very busy commercial area with obvious risks and opportunities for crime and antisocial behaviour so this is a real benefit for the area and a real help for protecting potential victims.”
Since efforts began, the police have noted a fall in incidents.
In a report, Inspector Lorna Ferguson said: “Youth disorder has been reduced during March, with Police Scotland continuing to work alongside the management and security at Union Square to address any issues.”
A spokesman for Union Square confirmed staff were liaising closely with the police to ensure the well-being of its patrons.
The spokesman said: “The security and safety of shoppers is our number one priority.
“Union Square works closely with Police Scotland and fully supports the positive work they do within Aberdeen city centre.”
