Cycle patrols target antisocial behaviour

Community Safety Glasgow has introduced a fleet of mountain bikes for 20 community enforcement officers to use on patrol, with staff undergoing Police Scotland cycle training.

The cycle patrols will continue to target offence hotspots, and issue fixed penalty notices for offences including littering and dog fouling.

Glasgow City Council leader Gordon Matheson said: “The cycle patrols are a great way of allowing our community enforcement officers to get to difficult-to-reach areas much more quickly and efficiently, thus extending our reach and making the city even safer in the run-up to the Commonwealth Games.

“The bikes will also be of crucial importance in allowing CEOs to continue to do their job effectively despite the signifcantly increased traffic and footfall we will experience during Games time.”

Phil Walker, managing director of Community Safety Glasgow, added: “Our cycle patrol will also enable us to work effectively in partnership with colleagues in Police Scotland and the Glasgow Housing Association, who use cycles extensively.”

Reaction to the news on The Extra’s Facebook page remained mixed, with readers highlighting problem hotspots.

Heather Rachel Turner pointed to Newlands Road, Cathcart, while Dawn Anderson Carlos commented: “Dog fouling on the streets, absolute disgrace for such a lovely area.”

Matt Marshall added: “They’re just interested in improving the public image of Glasgow — couldn’t care less about behind the scenes.”