Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

A bus shelter in Blackwood could be removed due to antisocial behaviour near it.

Residents in Blackwood have been campaigning to remove the bus shelter on Chartist Way, with 18 people signing a petition.

Councillors Kevin Etheridge and Nigel Dix, who represent the Blackwood ward, have said they support the residents.

Cllr Etheridge, who submitted the petition, said he “fully supports” the residents and described the antisocial behaviour problems at the bus shelter as “unacceptable”.

Cllr Dix said the police wouldn’t be able keep an eye on the bus shelter all the time.

Gwent Police Inspector Andrew Boucher said the force “regularly works with partners, including the council, to tackle anti-social behaviour”.

He added: “Proactive patrols are taking place after several reports of issues in this area of Blackwood, resulting in officers issuing fines and antisocial behaviour referrals for those involved.

“We welcome assistance from members of the public with this issue. We would encourage people to always report similar incidents to the police or the appropriate authority best placed to deal with these matters.

“Anyone caught committing an act of antisocial behaviour will be prosecuted.”

Caerphilly County Borough Council said a notice for the removal of the bus shelter was issued on February 1.

Residents will have 28 days to comment before a final decision is made.

A spokesman for the council said: “We want to send a clear message that antisocial behavior of any kind will not be tolerated and we will take action to prevent it to protect our people and place.”

The council has said that this decision would not impact the bus stop itself.