BARNSLEY Interchange is continuing to enjoy a reduction in antisocial behaviour, according to a police report.

The town centre-based policing team, which was set up more than two years ago, saw a 21 per cent reduction in related incidents at the transport hub, having focused on targeting long-running concerns with youth gangs.

The report said: “In that time we have seen a number of successes in terms of maintaining a safe place for residents, staff and visitors. One of the key priorities when the team first set up was to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour in and around the Barnsley Interchange.

“The public were reporting being intimidated by large groups of younger people, some of whom were committing criminal offences of robbery, theft, criminal damage and public order offences.

“Working closely with the youth offending team, we arrested a number ringleaders, resulting in custodial sentences for some.”

Criminal behaviour orders (CBOs), which prevent youngsters from reoffending, have enabled positive reductions to be noted since the initial flurry of prosecutions, police say.

“This action sent a clear message to other young people who were on the fringes of being involved, and by informing their parents of the risks, the large groups were dispersed and found more productive activities to engage in,” the report added.

“The interchange continues to enjoy very low levels of crime and antisocial behaviour reports, as spontaneous incidents of poor behaviour are dealt with quickly and effectively by the town centre team.”