Operation Elstree survey launched as reports of anti-social behaviour decrease

SOUTH Wales Police is seeking the views of people who have visited Barry Island this summer to better understand feelings around safety.

A survey of businesses and visitors will take place over the summer holidays to learn about personal experiences and hear views on policing.

The survey can be accessed via a QR code on posters displayed around Barry Island.

Meanwhile, Operation Elstree – a multi-agency summer operation covering the coastline around Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan – is continuing after some positive results.

Results so far include a 32% reduction in anti-social behaviour compared to the same period last year; 23 litres of alcohol seized; and 21 missing children found safe and well.

Op Elstree covers key locations including Cardiff Bay, Penarth, and Barry Island, as well as the Heritage Coastline stretch between Rhoose Point and Ogmore-by-Sea.

The operation was launched in May runs until September.

Local neighbourhood officers are supported by colleagues from across South Wales Police, including PCSOs, response officers, operational support services and the special constabulary, as well as a range of colleagues from our partner agencies.

So far the special constabulary has volunteered more than 120 hours to the operation.

This team effort is intended to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour while ensuring the quiet enjoyment of coastal areas for law-abiding residents and visitors.

Visitors are reminded to swim in lifeguarded beaches, ensure barbecues are properly extinguished and dispose of the litter responsibly.

There have been recent reports of tombstoning – the act of leaping into water from a significant height – at a number of locations including Rhoose Point.

Parents are urged to talk to their children about the risks.

South Wales Police chief inspector, Bella Rees said: “We will continue to work with our partners, over the summer, to proactively patrol key areas to prevent anti-social behaviour and criminality, and keep the community safe.

“With the school summer holidays in full swing our coastal areas are already very busy with thousands of visitors to local campsites.

“Thankfully the vast majority of people who visit our beautiful coastal areas behave appropriately and in accordance with the regulations.”

While recent weekends have been largely good natured, Section 35 notices in Barry Island and Ogmore by Sea give officers the power to move people on if they are acting in an anti-social manner.

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