Portobello Beach: heavier police presence to patrol Edinburgh beauty spots following rise in antisocial behaviour

Police have warned they will be cracking down on antisocial behaviour this weekend as the city basks in the summer sun.

Last week saw a mass brawl at Portobello beach, while The Meadows has been subject to regular bouts of disturbances among groups of youths in the last couple of months.

In a statement from Police Scotland, officers said they will be on patrol on Saturday and Sunday afternoon, particularly focussing on preventing mass fights and disorderly behaviour in the Capital’s beauty spots.

The statement added a reminder to members of the public that the risk of coronavirus spreading is still high and people need to take care when meeting up with others.

Superintendent David Robertson from St Leonard’s Police Station said: “Last weekend saw small groups of individuals, intent on trouble, engage in antisocial behaviour, risking public health and disrupting the enjoyment of the Meadows and Portobello beach for those wishing to do so responsibility. Let me be clear that this behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“Officers will be on patrol in these areas this afternoon and over the weekend and will continue to engage with the public, explain the legislation and guidance and encourage compliance. We will use enforcement as a last resort only where there is a clear breach of the legislation. Our ultimate aim over the weekend is to prevent further disorder.

He said officers have been specifically briefed in respect of early intervention, engagement and will make use of the Edinburgh street drinking byelaw, where it is necessary and proportionate to do so in order to prevent antisocial behaviour.

As was the case last weekend, those identified as being involved in antisocial behaviour and disorder will be arrested and charged accordingly.

Superintendent Robertson added: “The Chief Constable has made it clear that we are asking people to take personal responsibility to do the right thing and remember the purpose of these measures is to aid the collective effort to stay safe, protect others and save lives by preventing the virus from spreading. Aberdeen going into lockdown is a stark reminder that the virus is still very present and posing a threat to our communities.

“It also underpins the importance of continuing to follow the Scottish Government guidance.”

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