CRIME continues to increase in Colchester’s Castle Park despite council and police bosses throwing extra resources at it, a report has revealed.

In July - the most recent figures available - 18 crimes were reported in and around the beauty spot, which is an increase from seven in the same month last year.

In June this year, 29 crimes were reported to Essex Police, compared to 19 in 2016.

May saw 14 crimes reported, which is an increase from 12 last year.

The crimes include antisocial behaviour, criminal damage, arson and public order offences.

The issue is due to be debated by bosses at a meeting of Colchester Council’s scrutiny panel tonight.

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In documents to go before councillors, it states: “Anti-social behaviour continues to be an issue despite police and council resources being used to try to change behaviours.

“For example, incidents of anti-social behaviour in Castle Park are increasing each year and while the public spaces protection order (PSPO) at Firstsite has helped, it has now expired.”

It is hoped a town centre PSPO could help deal with low level crime, such as anti-social behaviour.

The proposed order - which would also target rough sleepers and businesses who use too many A-boards - has proved divisive, with high profile opposition coming from Conservative MP Will Quince, homeless campaigner Pete Hope and the Rt Rev Roger Morris, Bishop of Colchester.

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In total 41 people backed the proposals while 30 opposed it.

Documents state there are about 288 A-boards in use in the town centre which do not meet Essex Highways policy - which is yet to be implemented in Colchester.

Councillors will also be told PSPOs have worked in the borough but only last for three years.

At the moment, there are four current PSPOs in the town which ban gathering in car parks, anti-social behaviour and unlawful encampments, dog fouling and making sure dogs are on leads on the Mill Road sportsground.

Other high profile orders, banning alcohol consumption at St Botolph’s Circus and St Botolph’s Priory, anti-social behaviour at Firstsite and the sale of goods and parking at Turner Rise, have been in place but have now expired.