‘Car parks are not race tracks’: Police up patrols and sound warning

Police are “actively patrolling” a supermarket car park in a bid to tackle antisocial driving – and have threatened to seize cars and prosecute those caught in the act.

Concerns have been raised over car meet-ups at Asda car park in Blackwood, particularly in the evenings, Gwent Police officers said.

A statement on the Gwent Police – Caerphilly Officers Facebook page read: “Caerphilly Central Neighbourhood Policing Team officers are actively patrolling the area and will take action where offences are identified.

“This includes issuing warnings, seizing vehicles under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act, and prosecuting dangerous driving offences.”

The statement continued: “We want to remind everyone; Car parks are not race tracks. Respect for local residents and businesses is expected. Antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated.

“We are working closely with Asda, local authorities, and the community to address the issue. If you witness dangerous or disruptive driving, please report it to us via 101.

“Let’s keep Blackwood safe for everyone.”

Last month, Gwent Police announced it had secured an additional £1million in funding to bolster neighbourhood policing and increase patrols in antisocial behaviour hotspots – including Blackwood.

Back in January, Gwent Police chief inspector Stevie Warden said officers had increased patrols in the town following a rise in antisocial behaviour – and confirmed several people had been arrested. A ‘multi-agency operation’ was also running in the town centre to combat the issue.