Residents of Gloucester city centre have voiced concerns over feeling unsafe due to ongoing anti-social behaviour, along with drug and alcohol misuse, particularly around Gloucester Park. For several months, a number of locals have described the situation as a “constant, daily issue” since mid-June, affecting their safety, well-being, and quality of life.
Westgate city councillor Howard Hyman (Liberal Democrats) highlighted what he sees as insufficient police presence in both the city centre and Gloucester Park during both day and night. Despite these concerns, Gloucestershire Constabulary has assured that “targeted activity” will increase in the area in the coming days.
Councillor Hyman said, “I have been in correspondence with the local police inspector and they are striving to address the concerns raised, including anti-social behaviour throughout the city centre and park.”
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A resident living near Gloucester Park reported that, despite the park being designated within a city centre alcohol-free zone, “severe breaches have continued completely unchecked.” They added, “Groups regularly gather in the park consuming alcohol openly, along with frequent blatant cannabis smoking and suspected drug use in broad daylight.”
The resident further described that large gatherings often include individuals experiencing severe mental health challenges or intoxication, resulting in shouting and public disturbance that creates an unsafe environment, particularly between 2pm and the early hours.
They called on the Solace team, working in partnership with Gloucestershire Constabulary, to increase patrols and enforce the public spaces protection order by confiscating alcohol and issuing penalties to repeat offenders.
Gloucester’s neighbourhood policing team, which recently issued dispersal orders elsewhere to tackle anti-social conduct, acknowledged the concerns relating to Gloucester Park. A constabulary spokesperson said, “The behaviour of those responsible is causing understandable distress to people living and working locally. We are listening and actively working to stop it.”
They confirmed that joint operations with partners, including Gloucester City Council and Solace, took place recently and that increased patrols in and around the park will continue to offer reassurance and curb disruptive activities. Additional initiatives are planned over the coming weeks.
Neighbourhood Policing Inspector James O’Neill urged residents to continue reporting incidents of anti-social behaviour, stating, “The more information we receive, the better we can prevent further occurrences and help ensure people feel safe in their communities.”
Gloucester City Council affirmed that their city centre engagement officers and the Solace anti-social behaviour team remain in direct communication with concerned residents and are collaborating with partners to address these issues, including street drinking and community safety in Gloucester Park and the city centre.
Community engagement cabinet member Rebecca Trimnel (Liberal Democrats, Westgate) emphasised the council’s commitment to keeping public spaces safe and welcoming. “We recognise the significant impact of persistent anti-social behaviour on residents, businesses, and visitors. We are dedicated to working closely with Gloucestershire Constabulary and partners to address concerns and enhance confidence in these areas,” she said.
Councillor Trimnel also acknowledged that many individuals involved face complex challenges such as homelessness, mental health issues, addiction, and vulnerability. “Alongside enforcement, we are working hard with partners to provide support and opportunities to help people make positive changes. This is a complex issue with no single solution, which is why a balanced approach is essential. We welcome the Government’s commitment to reducing homelessness and look forward to how these plans can assist local efforts to tackle root causes.”
Authorities continue to encourage residents to report incidents to relevant organisations. This approach helps build a clearer picture of emerging issues, directs resources effectively, and supports enforcement where it is most needed.