Christina McKelvie MSP releases update following 2017 Parliamentary Summit on Hamilton town centre.

 

 

Following reports of anti-social disturbances in Hamilton town centre, local MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Christina McKelvie MSP stated:

“I was deeply concerned to be informed that following the initial success of my parliamentary summit to combat anti-social behaviour within Hamilton town centre, there have been several reported incidences of reoccurring disturbances.

“Initially, following an extensive stakeholder meeting culminating in my Scottish Parliament Summit to address the issue, an action plan was agreed from all parties which presented early success.

“Regrettably, there have been several recent incidents in the town centre that have prompted me to take immediate action.

“Since late last week when I learned of the incidents, I have established a high-level, multi-agency coordination strategy, involving several meetings and daily updates. This includes hosting Police Scotland, receiving a personal briefing regarding the crimes committed, the main perpetrators, the damage caused and the further action to be agreed.

“Further to this, I have had meetings and discussions with the Transport Minister, Humza Yousaf MSP. The Minister provided me with personal assurance that he will directly raise the anti-social behaviour occurring in Hamilton Central train station with Scotrail.

“In total, I have held meetings and have been in constant contact with Scottish Government officials, business owners, third sector organisations, local authority departments and, above all, the members of the public who use our town centre.

“Let me be clear, Hamilton remains a safe, secure and welcoming town.

“I thank Police Scotland, South Lanarkshire Council and all other stakeholders for their swift action thus far and I will be liaising with them further to ensure the safety for all throughout our town.