Tara Murray
Police are increasing patrols around Errington Reserve in St Albans following complaints from residents and park users about anti-social behaviour.
While there have been upgrades to the reserve and surrounding areas, those who use the reserve say there has been an increase in drug and alcohol fuelled behaviour since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Resident Robert Black has contacted both the council and local police about his concerns.
He said it was common to find drug paraphernalia in the area, while there are regularly burnt-out cars nearby.
“My kids go to daycare and school really close to Errington,” he said. “I do my shopping there every night.
“I’ve kept an eye on it [the upgrades] and the ground has improved but the situation was getting worse.”
Mr Black said he felt compelled to take action after St Albans Football Club gave permission for some of its junior sides to train at the ground.
As the coach of the club’s under-14 team he felt he needed to ensure the safety of the playing group. He said police had told him they would patrol the area more frequently.
“I wrote a letter to the council once I found out that they said by the end of May that the ground would be available for use by St Albans Football Club to use for training and matches,” he said.
“I know that I will be in charge of 30-40 kids each session. I was a bit concerned about being in charge of them all with intoxicated people around and yelling things out, which they tend to do.
“People don’t want to go there and don’t feel safe.”
Keilor Downs Senior Sergeant Terry West said police had increased patrols in the area and were looking at other measures to help keep residents safe.
“We are aware of some issues with local sporting clubs and we’re working with the council to address those concerns,” he said.
“We’re increasing patrols as much as we can. We’re working with the community where we can.”
Brimbank council community wellbeing director Lynley Dumble said the council had increased surveillance, cleaning and monitoring of the area following complaints.
“Council has received reports of anti-social behaviour at Errington Reserve in recent months. These have been reported to Victoria Police and appropriate action has been taken.
“Council has recently invested in upgrading sporting facilities at Errington Reserve, including construction of the sporting pavilion, sportsground reconstruction and installation of LED floodlighting. Currently there is CCTV coverage of the area as well.
“Council will continue to work closely with Victoria Police, local traders, community groups, support services, and the sporting clubs that use these facilities, to keep the area safe for the whole community.”
