News / KNowle West
Library closed due to anti-social behaviour
A library has had to temporarily close due to “anti-social and aggressive behaviour” by a number of youths.
Bristol City Council says Filwood Library in Knowle West will be shut until at least September to ensure the safety of staff and users.
A council spokesperson said: “The decision to close is never taken lightly as we understand the importance of these services to our citizens.
is needed now More than ever
“Unfortunately, recent anti-social and aggressive behaviour from large groups of young people has put staff and users at Filwood Library at risk”.
The council also said its anti-social behaviour team is working with the police and others to tackle the issue.
Its spokesperson added: “An investigation is continuing and this situation is being taken very seriously by the police.
“We are working together to find solutions with a view to ensuring the library returns to normal opening hours by September.”
The library on Filwood Broadway has been closed for most of the coronavirus pandemic but reopened earlier this year.
Avon & Somerset Police said its officers are targeting anti-social behaviour on Filwood Broadway this summer.
Spokeswoman Jenny Bigwood told Bristol24/7: “Officers have identified a number of the teenagers involved and are holding meetings with their parents and carers.
“It’s important to stress that this is a minority of young people. Teenagers should be able to use public spaces to meet their friends as much as anyone else.
“However it’s not acceptable that community facilities such as the library feel they must close due to anti-social behaviour.
“We’ve had reports of children climbing on roofs which clearly puts them at risk of accident and injury.”
The council and police say Filwood Library in Knowle West has become a hotspot for anti-social behaviour. Photo by Charlie Watts
The police also said several young people have signed anti-social behaviour contracts. “If they breach these agreements, it could lead to further action,” the spokeswoman warned.
“No one wants to criminalise children, and parents and carers have a role to play in teaching them to respect their community and making sure they know where they are and what they get up to.
“As well as working directly with the young people and their families, we’re working with youth outreach groups, the council and other community organisations to find longer-term solutions.”
Charlie Watts is reporting on Knowle West as part of Bristol24/7’s community reporter scheme, a pilot project which aims to tell stories from areas of Bristol traditionally under-served by the mainstream media
Main photo by Charlie Watts
Read more: Knowle West girl’s garden transformed after community appeal
Listen to the latest episode of the Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
