Intimidating and nuisance behaviour in the centre of Great Dunmow is set to be tackled as authorities lobby together to put an end to the problem.

Following complaints from residents about anti-social behaviour around the White Street car park, a joint partnership meeting, including representatives from Uttlesford District Council (UDC) and Essex Police, was held last Friday.

This was the first step taken to decide how to discourage young people from congregating outside the Co-op convenience store and parking their cars outside people’s homes.

Ideas included stepping up police patrols in the area as well as shopping the names of offenders to their parents and their school.

PC Tom Monro said: “There have been a number of issues raised about anti-social behaviour caused by young people hanging around at the White Street car park and a very positive meeting was held with councillors, the Uttlesford District anti-social behaviour co-ordinator and the Co-op to discuss possible solutions.

“We wanted to bring everyone together so that our approach to the problem is fully joined up.

“There were a lot of good ideas discussed and I am hopeful that we can develop a plan of action to tackle the issues both from an enforcement perspective and by looking at what other opportunities can be offered for young people in the town.

He added: “In terms of policing we will be paying more attention to the area with patrols, looking at best use of CCTV to help prosecute any criminal offences and making sure that we involve parents and schools in dealing appropriately with any children who are caught offending or causing a nuisance.”

In the next few weeks district and town councillors are planning to visit the car park to engage with the youths to discuss the issue with them and get their perspective on how the problem can be solved.

Cllr Vic Ranger, cabinet member for communities and partnerships, said: “We are aware of this ongoing issue and are listening to residents’ concerns – we need to do everything we can to help improve their situation.

“The partnership meeting was the first step taken towards resolving the situation.

“There was some good discussion around the table in terms of establishing what the issues are and finding out what, in particular, draws these young people to this location.

“Some ideas to help tackle the problem have also been put forward, although this is not an easy fix.”

What do you think? Is there a problem at the White Street car park or are people overreacting? What could be done to resolve the issue? E-mail us at editor@dunmow-broadcast@archant.co.uk