Anti-social behaviour in Kesgrave last year was at its highest level since 2011, and has increased for the first time since 2009, according to new figures.

The data, released by Suffolk police during last week’s town council meeting, revealed that 313 incidents of anti-social behaviour were recorded in 2014, compared to just 251 the year before.

The numbers mean that calls to police for anti-social behaviour were at their highest level since 2011, where 331 calls were made.

However, while the figures show an increase for the first time since 2009, police do not believe it is the beginning of an upward trend.

Sergeant Andrew Buck, from Suffolk police, said: “Overall reports of anti-social behaviour in Kesgrave have been on the decrease over the past five years, with 474 incidents being reported in 2009 and 313 being reported in 2014.

“Having said that, the figure of 313 is up slightly, and this rise in reports is in part due to pro-active work with our partners and the local community to encourage residents to let us know of incidents that can be prioritised.

“Overall anti-social behaviour has fallen since Kesgrave and District Safer Neighbourhood Team was introduced (in 2006), with over 400 incidents being reported in Kesgrave in previous years.”

Residents have raised concerns over anti-social behaviour in parts of the town close to the Cedarwood Green teen shelter since May last year, which prompted a public meeting over youth provision in November.

Since then, plans to erect fencing around the teen shelter, and have the area locked after hours have been put in place, and a request for a greater PCSO presence have been requested.

Christopher Hudson, Suffolk county councillor for Kesgrave and Rushmere St Andrew, said: “I think there is now better reporting of anti-social behaviour, and people are quite rightly urged to report crime, which is a positive thing.

“However, I think the figures are very disturbing because it is low level anti-social behaviour which is infuriating, and I really think we have to have a zero-tolerance approach to it. It may just be a scratch on someone’s car, but it is very infuriating and people shouldn’t have to put up with it.

“I am very happy to hear from residents who can write to me at the county council.”