Glenorchy joins Rosny in call for help to cut anti-social behaviour

Another council in the Greater Hobart has put out an emergency call for help to Tasmania’s Premier to clean up anti-social behaviour in its CBD, with security guards now patrolling the area. LATEST >>

GLENORCHY Mayor Bec Thomas has asked the Premier to back up the city’s efforts to reduce anti-social behaviour to boost public confidence in coming out to enjoy the revitalised CBD.

Ald Thomas said issues with anti-social behaviour on the council chamber lawns and at the bus mall had peaked and she has asked Mr Gutwein to reinstate the Glenorchy Interagency Support Team.

The council itself has employed two security guards to monitor the public lawns near the council chambers where people congregate.

Glenorchy bus mall.

Signs have also been erected to remind people that consuming alcohol on the lawns is not permitted.

The guards are being trialled for two weeks in the lead-up to Christmas and so far their presence has deterred bad behaviour in that area.

Although there are concerns the problem may have moved to Northgate Shopping Centre and near the library.

Glenorchy’s call for help follows a call from Clarence Alderman Brendan Blomeley for an increased police presence at the Rosny Park bus mall and skate park to combat anti-social behaviour, assaults and drug dealing

“Things have got worse of late with a deterioration in the behaviour of a minority and it is impacting on the community,” she said.

Bec Thomas has been elected as the new Glenorchy City Council Mayor. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“We used to have a community police officer and they did a great job and it was really good proactive policing in partnership with the council, local businesses and local schools.

“We have a good relationship with Tasmania Police in Glenorchy but the amount of attention they can pay to the CBD depends on what resources they have.

“Glenorchy is a proud city and, with its recently revitalised CBD area we want to ensure that the community can benefit from spending time in a safe and welcoming environment as they socialise and shop at the local businesses.”

Ald. Thomas said the Salvation Army Glenorchy were also doing a great job in supporting those in the community who need help.

“This issue is very important to me. We are seeing community pride grow and I am keen to not just protect it but to boost it,” Ald. Thomas said.

Mr Gutwein replied to Ald Thomas saying he had asked Police Minister Jacqui Petrusma to consider the issue and raise it with Tasmania’s Police Commissioner.