Bridport gardens face lock at night to combat vandalism and large groups drinking, supported by many local residents.
The Friends of Borough Gardens support this idea, as do thirteen Magna Housing residences. Their access is only through the gardens. Residents are frustrated by nightly problems. Large groups are drinking there. People also smash bottles, even with bins nearby.
Anne Disson lives near the gardens and worries about glass in the grass. Families picnic there, including crawling babies, and she fears for their safety. She does not mind normal laughter, but the bad behavior spoiled it for everyone, she stated.
The gates might close at certain times. Winter hours could be 7pm to 7am, while summer hours could be 8pm to 7am. Some worry the problem will just move. Trouble might relocate elsewhere in town.
One anonymous resident calls it a shame, saying it is sad for the beautiful garden. Stopping destruction is important, and they said the measure is a necessity. Vandalism includes broken decorations, as well as broken plant pots and bottles.
Antisocial behavior happens on weekends. Summer sees problems Friday and Saturday, while winter sees problems on Fridays. Loud drinking occurs, and other noisy behavior continues until 3am. Occasional fights also happened there.
Gardens are usually empty by 10:30pm, and they are there for public use, this resident added. Problems only happen sometimes. Quiet and respectful use is fine. The resident does not know a good solution.
Magna Housing has a legal right of way, and they have reservations about the plan currently. The locks and signs cost around £350. The council asked Magna to help pay. Magna’s response was not positive, it seems.