RESIDENTS IN PLEA TO STOP ARCOT LANE ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

A CALL has been made for more action to be taken against anti-social behaviour at a dogging hotspot in Northumberland.

- By KALI LINDSAY

There have been reports people are engaging in group sex acts and other acts of public indecency in broad daylight on Arcot Lane, Cramlington.

A new crematorium is earmarked for land in the area after plans were approved by council officials towards the end of last year.

But one disgruntled resident has called on Northumberland County Council and Northumbria Police to take action.

Cramlington and Killingworth MP Emma Foody has also been contacted by "concerned" residents.

Northumbria Police say officers regularly carry out patrols and one person has since been interviewed and referred for a caution after receiving a recent report of outraging public decency.

Resident Mike Smith, who formerly objected to the crematorium plans, said he has been reporting the ongoing issue of public indecency at this location for a year.

He said: "The area is openly advertised on public cruising websites, and I have documented multiple incidents of men loitering in cars or bushes before engaging in group sexual acts in broad daylight.

"Just this week, I witnessed a man masturbating in public and the police have finally confirmed they are following up with him. Despite repeated reports and safeguarding concerns, the council and police have both failed to act decisively."

Mr Smith said a call for CCTV and warning signs had been rebuffed by council bosses.

"No CCTV - the council claims there are 'no lampposts,' he said, despite mobile and pole-mounted cameras being widely available.