Police and borough council crack down on drinking and drug use in Christchurch Park, Ipswich

Police in Ipswich are cracking down on anti-social behaviour in Christchurch Park, after reports of drug users and heavy drinkers in the area.

The Friends of Christchurch Park last week reported on Facebook that it was working alongside police and park rangers over the problem, with the aim of reducing anti-social behaviour and protecting the park and its visitors.

Suffolk police officers confirmed that six arrests had been made in the last few weeks – including two for possession of Class A drugs.

Ipswich Central safer neighbourhood team sergeant Jonathan Driver said: “The Central Ipswich safer neighbourhood team is aware of concerns surrounding drug deals taking place in parks in the Ipswich area. We are working together with partner agencies to monitor the situation and our officers are carrying out both routine and increased spot check park patrols.

“We do not tolerate drug dealing in Suffolk and will take action against those found to be committing criminal offences; several arrests have been made over the summer already.”

The spate of drug and alcohol reports in the park follows an increase in incidents reported in Holywells Park, where park rangers and nearby businesses have noted an upturn in finding drug paraphernalia and some deals taking place in broad daylight.

An Ipswich Borough Council spokesman said: “We are aware of the problems and our park patrol team remains vigilant and is working closely with the police to combat anti social behaviour.

“Christchurch Park is a wonderful facility which continues to be enjoyed by both residents and visitors to Ipswich.”

The Friends group is now urging anyone who sees heavy drinking or drug dealing in the park to report it to the park’s 24-hour number on 01473 432132 or police on 101.

Those who find drug paraphernalia are asked not to pick it up but to report it.