Council staff to man Kelvingrove Park gates

Gates to Kelvingrove Park in Glasgow are to be manned to stop people enjoying the sun with booze.

Glasgow City Council staff will be stationed at open gates on Friday to inform anyone arriving at the green spot with alcohol that they will be refused entry.

High temperatures are forecast so a large turnout is expected, although drinking in open spaces is banned in the city.

George Gillespie, executive director for the council, said: "Kelvingrove Park is there for everyone to enjoy, but we have been very concerned about recent reports from the park of violence, anti-social behaviour and a frequent refusal to follow physical distancing rules during the Covid emergency.

"Much of this unacceptable behaviour has been fuelled by alcohol and it has created an atmosphere that is intimidating and unwelcoming to many residents who regularly use the park.

"The issues in the park required a response to protect the amenity of the park for all parts of the community.

"Having officers stationed at open gates to enforce the park management rules will help to ensure that the park is a safe place for all people to visit.

"The simple message is that if you come to the park with alcohol you won't get in.

"Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy Kelvingrove Park, but alcohol should be left behind.

"Like any other open space in the city, anyone who is found to be drinking alcohol within the park is liable to receive a fine from the police.''

Earlier this month, 10 out of sixteen gates at the park were locked to allow better management of access on busy days.

People carrying alcohol on Friday will either be asked to leave or be given the option of dumping their drink in specially provided bins before entering.

The council has liaised regularly with Police Scotland to develop the response to issues in the park.

Superintendent Ross Allan said: "Officers will be visible and accessible to park users should they need police assistance.

"We would like to remind anyone planning on visiting the park that alcohol is not permitted and, should incidents of antisocial behaviour take place, then those responsible will be dealt with robustly.''

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