RESIDENTS say they are becoming frustrated at the lack of action to tackle anti-social behaviour by gangs of youths. According to Cllr Marilyn Kirkland, who represents Baldock East, youngsters have been gathering in the Bush Springs play area at Clothalll

RESIDENTS say they are becoming frustrated at the lack of action to tackle anti-social behaviour by gangs of youths.

According to Cllr Marilyn Kirkland, who represents Baldock East, youngsters have been gathering in the Bush Springs play area at Clothalll Common in Baldock for some time, using abusive language and causing a general nuisance.

Residents formed a committee and held a meeting to discuss the issue with the council at Baldock Community Centre last October.

But since then nothing has been done.

Cllr Kirkland, who backs the residents, said: "They asked the council to give their opinion. They made quite a few comments but nothing has happened.

"The residents are very disappointed that there were promises made but no action taken by the council.

"Although they try to do things I know it does take time but almost a year is too much."

A spokesman for North Herts District Council said: "NHDC officers met with residents at Bush Springs, Baldock, last October who were concerned about problems with youths congregating in the park.

"The nuisance ceased over the next few months but in July two residents contacted the council to complain about the behaviour of youngsters in the park.

"Council officers are working with the police to come up with a solution to the problem."

Possible solutions include installing CCTV cameras, issuing ASBOs as a deterrent or making the area into a park to give it the protection of bylaws.

Cllr Trisha Gibbs, NHDC portfolio holder for community engagement, said: "We would ask parents to make their children aware that their behaviour can disturb residents and that they should be considerate when they are in public spaces.

"We are determined to reduce anti-social behaviour and will take appropriate action in partnership with the police.

"Any concerned residents can apply to us for an anti-social behaviour diary to help us record incidents.