A BENCH was removed from a Wokingham park last week in an attempt to reduce anti-social behaviour.
Previously located in Shinfield Road Recreation Ground, it had reportedly been a gathering site for groups and individuals conducting disorderly behaviour.
Thames Valley Police (TVP) and Reading Borough Council conducted the removal on Wednesday, August 3.
A spokesperson for the council said: “The bench was removed as it was providing a gathering point for groups of individuals causing problems around anti-social behaviour, and alcohol and drug use.
“Resident engagement revealed that the bench’s use for these activities was presenting a barrier for them being able to use that area of the park safely and confidently.
“Whilst removing the bench will not eradicate these issues, it will help to mitigate the concentration of them in that particular hotspot and improve it for local residents.
“The council and TVP are working together on a number of wider measures to tackle anti-social behaviour across Reading.”
TVP is encouraging residents to report anti-social behaviour in the park and the Linden Road area by calling 101, quoting 4322023592.
