POLICE this week reassured Stevenston residents that they are committed to working on youth disorder in the local area.

Concerns were raised to the Herald about the area surrounding the Ardeer Quarry, which has been a long-time hang out for teens from the Three Towns.

Alleged under-age drinking, drug-use and fire-raising were revealed by concerned residents and they hope that work between the police and council will be able to help.

One said: “Something has got to be done. We are fed up. There are people who are scared to go down there with their dogs. It’s been going on for two years, it’s a nature reserve and it is getting destroyed. It’s not now and again, it’s every night.”

Police Inspector Brian Skimming said: “ We have been aware of issues being raised by the local residents specifically about anti-social behaviour in Ardeer stadium and surrounding area and some of them have been in touch with members of the Locality Policing Team based here at Saltcoats.

“We have been carrying out a number of actions and these have resulted in some youths being found in possession of alcohol and also others reported for minor ASB type offences. We have also carried out an enquiry into who provides under-age persons with alcohol and the LPT here at Saltcoats have reported two adult males who were carrying this out in Stevenston.

“Should anyone have any information about who is thought responsible for anti-social behaviour in Ardeer or indeed any other location in North Ayrshire I would encourage them to pass this on to the Locality Policing Teams via 101 or by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Councillor John Sweeney said: “As a resident of Stevenston I am well aware of this disorder in my local community, I also have family members who live near that area of the town who have concerns about this ongoing disorder and destruction.

“ I have spoken to residents who have advised me of their concerns of this prolonged disorder in our town. I have taken their concerns to the police who have had numerous calls from residents relating to this disorder.

“I am currently arranging a meeting with the Locality Policing Team to jointly propose and implement a plan of action to resolve this totally unacceptable behaviour. I will provide the local residents with feedback from my forthcoming meeting.

Councillor Davina McTiernan advised that she had not been contacted regarding the quarry adding: “I would ask that those who have concerns get in touch with me so that I can raise this with the appropriate authorities.”