TAXI drivers are threatening to boycott an area of Darwen they say is becoming too dangerous to travel through at the weekends.
Gangs of up to 30 youths congregate in the Hollins Road, Sandringham Road and Bedford Mews area on Friday and Saturday nights.
They have been blamed for ambushes on taxis which culminated last weekend when hundreds of pounds of damage was caused to five vehicles owned by Response Taxis of Railway Road.
The firm said its driver may now boycott the Anchor area for their own safety.
Police have pledged to step up patrols to stamp out the problems with ‘youth nuisance’.
Nadeem Nisar, spokesman for Response Taxis, said: “Every weekend for about six weeks our cars have been getting ambushed.
“Five cars were damaged last week. We had youths kicking door panels in, smashing the windscreens and throwing eggs.
“They literally pounce on the cars and it’s becoming very frightening for the drivers.
“A driver is going to get seriously hurt and it’s getting to the point where we will just stop picking people up from the Anchor area.
“The police need to do more surveillance. It’s not good enough.”
Earcroft councillor Trevor Maxfield, who lives only a hundred yards from the trouble spot, said: “I’ve been aware of problems with youths in the area for a while.
“There have been groups on the corner of Bedford Mews for about six months now, causing problems.
“The police have been informed about it on numerous occasions and they have stepped up their patrols in the area.”
A police spokesman said they were aware of the problems with youth nuisance in the area and tackling the issue was a priority.
There will be high visibility patrols and alcohol confiscated from youths, the spokesman said.
In addition police are appealing for anyone with information to call 0845 1 25 35 45.
source
http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/ne ... rwen_area/
Login
Register
FAQ
