Following a spate of anti-social behaviour incidents in Kirkby Town Centre, Merseyside Police made three arrests last night (10 May 2023).
Reports were received that a number of youths had accessed the former Barclaycard building in the Town Centre, causing around £15,000 of damage to windows, lights and tiles.
Three boys, aged 13 to 14 years, were arrested on suspicion of burglary and further investigations and collation of evidence will now follow.
Councillor Shelley Powell, Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, said: “Such behaviour is completely unacceptable.
“Kirkby residents asked for many years for an improved town centre and better facilities for them to enjoy.
“Over the last four years, many millions of pounds have been invested in our town. On behalf of local residents, the Council bought the town centre, built a retail development in less than two years, and brought a much-needed supermarket to Kirkby, as well as attracting other businesses which will provide leisure and food and drink offers – all things which residents asked for. We have also invested in CCTV, enhancing the coverage across the town centre.
“It’s really disappointing that a small minority of young people – in fact, children who are aged 14 and under – think it’s okay to try to damage what we have worked so hard to achieve.
“The owners of this property are currently investing in the building with a view to bringing investment and hundreds of new jobs to our town.
“I’d ask parents and carers in Kirkby to make sure they know where their children are and what they are doing. I’m sure that the parents and carers of these particular children are amongst the many who wanted what has been created in Kirkby Town centre, and yet their children are damaging it.
“Merseyside Police made three arrests last night and we will continue to work with them to ensure that any further offenders are identified and brought to justice.”
Inspector Andrew Robinson from Knowsley’s Policing Team added: “Such offences can have a lasting detrimental impact to our community and I hope these arrests show that these actions will not be tolerated on our streets.
“Kirkby Town Centre is a community priority for our Knowsley Policing Team. We continue to investigate every incident of crime and anti-social behaviour to hold those responsible accountable.
“If you are aware of any anti-social behaviour or criminal damage taking place in your area, please contact us so we can continue to take action and ensure the safety of others.”
If you have any information about anti-social behaviour within Kirkby Town Centre, direct message Merseyside Police on social media @MerPolCC quoting 23000115633.
Information can also be shared with Knowsley’s Crime and Communities team via safer.knowsley@knowsley.gov.uk
You can also pass information on anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or contact them via their online form https://orlo.uk/1xe92