09/07/2026
Good to see the issue of illegal bikes, disorder and ASB in West Park being covered in the Shields Gazette.
Residents are right to be concerned. The behaviour we’ve seen around the park, the pump track and surrounding streets is not acceptable, and people should not feel unsafe using public spaces.
It’s also worth being clear on reporting routes.
ASB can include things like nuisance behaviour, repeated disturbance, littering, intimidation, groups causing concern, or behaviour that makes people feel unsafe.
Crime is different. If someone is being threatened, assaulted, bikes are being ridden dangerously, property is being damaged, or there is an immediate risk to people, that needs reporting to the police.
I’ve been speaking with council officers and Public Protection about this, and work is continuing with Northumbria Police to tackle the problem. Operation Capio, Project Shield, Business and Community Responders and youth outreach work are all part of that wider response.
Residents also need clear ways to report what they are seeing. Reports help build the evidence needed for enforcement, patrols and action.
Report ASB here:
www.southtyneside.gov.uk/reportit
For non-emergency police matters, call 101 or report online to Northumbria Police.
For emergencies, or if a crime is happening now, always call 999.
This is not just a West Park issue, and it is not something that will be fixed overnight, but I’ll keep pushing for action and making sure residents’ concerns are heard.
Article link in the comments.
