Police action to halt anti-social behaviour in Alma Square, Scarborough

Following concerns from local residents and visitors to the area, patrols around Alma Square have been increased, and put a Public Space Protection Order in place, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol in Scarborough town centre.

In 2025 to date, there has been a 36 per cent increase in reports from the public versus 2024 (832 reports this year, compared to 796 last year) across the full Castle Ward.

A police spokesperson said: “We are actively offering more ways members of the public to contact us to report concerns, including via Community Messenger, via our website or on 101.

“However, we know that progress is also being made, thanks to increased police presence over the summer.

“The number of reported incidents has reduced by 23% from 65 in summer 2024 (June to September) to 50 in summer 2025 (June to September)

“We have created a survey which we are asking those living in the area to complete so we can continue to address concerns.

“Anyone who wants to complete it should do so by Wednesday October 1 2025 on this link https://orlo.uk/vrKsi”

Antisocial behaviour is defined as 'behaviour by a person which causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to persons not of the same household as the person' (Antisocial Behaviour Act 2003 and Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011) It can take many forms, ranging from aggressive, noisy or abusive behaviour to neighbourhood disturbances involving drugs, abandoned cars or animals.

Anyone who witnesses antisocial behaviour can report it via the North Yorkshire Police website or by calling 101. In an emergency, always ring 999.  

To sign up to North Yorkshire Community Messenger, visit Home Page - North Yorkshire Community Messaging and choose from email or text alerts.