A SECURITY guard could be employed in Sussex Square to protect a charity shop and library against anti-social behaviour.

Last week, Peter Mallinson, the chairman of the Walcot Charity Shop and Community Library, announced intentions to close the popular hub after youths kicked a football through the window of the shop, terrifying customers and staff.

The single-paned glass splintered across the room, breaking several items on sale and showering £500 of baby clothes in glass shards.

Last month, vulnerable people at Options For Living, which supports people with disabilities with social events and advocacy work in the same building as the shop, were also left cowering and waiting for police as youths attacked the premises.

A meeting on Friday, to discuss the problems that have plagued the Square for months, has resulted in a renewed effort by councillors and police to address the issues quicker than expected.

Council leader David Renard has discussed with Councillor Steve Allsopp (Lab, Walcot & Park North) the potential for £5,000 of funds to pay for a greater levels of security at the shop, and the possibility of introducing a security guard at the shop and library.

Peter said: “I have been impressed with how quickly all the agencies involved have moved and just want to say a big thank you to them for addressing everything so quickly.

“They came in and fixed the window and on Monday police came out and moved on around nine youths who were hanging around outside. As chairman of the charity and the shop I have a duty of care to the volunteers and their safety.

“After seeing how quickly they have responded to our concerns the volunteers feel that we can stay open. No-one wants to see the shop close because it is such an important part of the community, and I’m pleased that we’ll be staying open.”

Councillor Allsopp said: “David Renard has agreed in principle to getting physical security for the charity shop and library,” he said.

“I’m pleased the shop has decided to stay open as a result because I think everyone has worked hard to address the concerns raised in last week’s meeting as quickly as possible.”

The most recent vandalism is just the latest in a string of anti-social behaviour issues in Sussex Square predominantly caused by large groups of youths.

In July, a dispersal order on the Square gave police powers to move along groups of two or more people who are suspected of causing anti-social behaviour.

It initially served as a deterrent for the youngsters, but residents and businesses on the Square have noticed an increase in anti-social behaviour in recent weeks.

Inspector Charlie Ducker, for the North and East sectors, who has recently taken on responsibility for the area, said last Friday that the local authority, the community and the police had to work in partnership to tackle the ongoing issue.