A LOCAL MSP has called for community safety officers to be introduced across the area to help tackle anti-social behaviour.

Conservative Maurice Corry’s comments came after the Advertiser reported Garelochhead residents’ anger at anti-social neighbours disturbing the peaceful village.

Some were unhappy that more had not been done earlier to prevent the disruptive behaviour, which included allegedly taking drugs in the street, attempting to break in to homes and cars, and using threatening and abusive language towards children.

And Mr Corry, who represents the West Scotland region and lives in Helensburgh, has called for police to focus on preventing crime, rather than reacting to incidents.

He said: “I am disappointed to learn the police can’t take a more proactive approach to resolving these issues.

“I have been working with a few other local residents with similar issues including dog fouling on communal property, threats of violence and interception/opening of mail, all of which has been reported to the local police, who have stated they can’t act until ‘something’ has happened.

“In my mind, any of the incidents mentioned should be enough for police to take a proactive role to ensure the safety of the public, not waiting for a more serious incident to occur before reacting.

“Community safety is a serious issue which can affect people’s lives negatively and leave them uncomfortable in their own homes.

“I want to see ‘community safety officers’ on the street available to speak with and assist communities with these anti-social behaviour problems to ensure local residents aren’t having to endure this sort of behaviour until the police take action.”

Mr Corry hopes to see a similar system adopted to that in England, to assist the current ‘specials’ in dealing with lesser disputes.

He added: “I will continue to be vocal on this issue until we as a community see action being taken.

“This kind of policing is not about conviction rates, it is about community safety, and Police Scotland should be working closer with communities to prevent issues occurring rather than waiting until they feel they can get a conviction.

“Local communities would benefit from a local community-based officer who is able to gather information and local knowledge and liaise with residents and businesses.

“The police force has changed from a prevention and public service force to a capture and convict force.”

A spokeswoman from Police Scotland said any debate over policy and staffing numbers should be dealt with by the Scottish Government.

The statement added: “We are aware of a number of reports of anti-social behaviour in the Garelochhead area and local officers are working closely with the housing association to address any issues.

“Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and we would urge anyone with information or concerns to contact their local police station via 101.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson said:“The latest police officer strength statistics show we have a higher number of officers than was the case prior to 2007.

“It is right that Police Scotland should keep the size and shape of its workforce under review in light of changing demands. Operational deployment of officers is a matter for Police Scotland.”