CCTV and new lighting has finally been installed in an Inverness park to crack down on drunken youths and vandals.
Police and community figures have raised concerns previously about growing issues of anti-social behaviour at Inshes park.
The aims is that the new lighting and cameras will make the park feel safer, and deter those damaging equipment and leaving a mess.
Yesterday, Inverness South councillor Ken Gowans said: “I am delighted to say we have now installed the extra lighting and CCTV, which has been live since Monday. The warning is that anyone who has any thoughts of carrying out anti-social behaviour will be caught and camera identified and appropriate action will be taken.
“It has cost £5,000 from the ward discretionary budget. This could have been spent on enhancing the park – it’s the cost of trying to stop this kind of behaviour.
“There has been an escalation in anti-social behaviour, not just in Inshes Park but also the city centre, which is why police have committed to providing additional street patrols there.”
In August, a picnic table was set on fire in Inshes Park close to a pile of leaves which appeared to have been placed on top of broken glass.
In July, four teenagers were arrested in connection with an assault and robbery in the park. The 31-year-old male victim was taken to Raigmore Hospital where he received treatment for minor injuries.
Police have previously pledged to clamp down on problems within the park.
The force said that there has been a rise in incidents of graffiti, littering and damage in and around the park.
The roof of the park shelter has been extensively damaged, trees have been uprooted, bottles smashed and various items of park furniture sprayed with graffiti.
Constable Robin Brown described the behaviour of culprits as “disrespectful and reckless”.
He added: “As part of our plan to tackle this issue, we would appeal to residents to continue reporting incidents to us.
“The park and wider Inshes area will continue to be patrolled appropriately and officers will liaise with local schools, partner agencies and elected members.”
