Action being taken to stop anti-social behaviour at South Gare site
PD Ports say it's been advertised incorrectly on social media
A part of Teesside is being cleaned up to try and tackle a rise in anti-social behaviour.
PD Ports says this summer saw the South Gare overwhelmed with campervans and other vehicles, often staying for extended periods and leaving behind litter and other waste, which escalated due to the site being incorrectly highlighted as a free or ‘wild’ camping site on social media.
The large number of vehicles in the area also blocked emergency vehicle access and is compromising PD Ports’ own operational activities in the area and that of the licenced tenants on the site, including fishermen and conservation groups.
A height restriction barrier and other infrastructure is now being installed on South Gare Road, at the boundary of PD Ports’ private land, to manage and safeguard the operational and environmental needs of the area.
PD Ports chief executive officer Frans Calje said: “The South Gare is a local landmark and a place of outstanding natural beauty and wildlife.
“Unfortunately, the site has become a free-for-all for those who mistakenly believe a number of ‘wild’ camping apps and social media groups that it is a suitable place to camp.
“We’ve received a number of complaints from local residents and licenced tenants of the various facilities on the gare about anti-social behaviour and inconsiderate parking – after monitoring the situation it has become clear that it is not sustainable.
“If there was an emergency on the gare itself, or out on the water or the beach, the current situation would make it very difficult for emergency vehicles to access the area.
“We have not taken this decision lightly but the sharp rise in the number of people behaving inappropriately in this area means we have no choice. As the responsible authority for South Gare, we must ensure it is protected – both operationally and environmentally.
“We trust this action will restore the South Gare to a peaceful, well-managed state.”
PD Ports added that the affected area of the gare – the boundary of which lies adjacent to Paddy’s Hole towards the tip of the Teesside landmark - is clearly signposted to indicate that it is private land owned and operated by PD Ports. CCTV cameras have been installed and additional barriers added along the edge of the road to prevent parked vehicles blocking access.
Emergency access will be maintained 24 hours a day. Tenants and licence holders at South Gare have been informed about the changes.
The Harbour Police – a warranted, independent force privately funded by PD Ports to ensure the safety and security of Teesport and its environs – will continue to monitor the area and deal with criminality and anti-social behaviour.
Separate action is also underway remove a number of abandoned vehicles from the gare.