Measures to deter suspected street drinkers from congregating outside a busy shopping area of Reading town centre have been completed.
For months, suspected street drinkers have been spotted sitting on a ledge outside the Metro Bank in St Mary’s Butts at the Broad Street Mall.
That has led to complaints some of those responsible are causing disturbance and are guilty of anti-social behaviour.
Shop clerk Jaswwoer Kaur claimed she had witnessed aggressive and criminal behaviour from Davina’s convenience store, situated nearby.
Ms Kaur said: “It’s very scary. There are people sitting there from morning until into the evening, drinking and sometimes fighting with each other and members of the public.
“It’s very worrying when I’m here on my own or with my sister because they come into the shop at times and shoplift alcohol.”
The issue was raised with Metro Bank staff in the summer, who acknowledged the ledge had become a spot for suspected street drinkers to congregate and stated that deterrence measures would be taken.
The work involved filing down the ledge so that people can no longer sit on it.
The project was completed over the weekend, with photographic evidence provided by the bank on Monday, November 25.
Confirming the news, Metro Bank spokesperson said: “We have worked closely with Broad Street Mall and Reading Borough Council to find a solution and would like to thank them for their expedited support.
“Together, we have changed and improved the appearance at the front of the store.”
