Scarborough locals and visitors are split on how to feel about the ‘dark side’ of the town, with some fearing for their lives while others say the city remains a ‘gorgeous’ seaside resort
A booming UK seaside town has a dark side once the sun sets which has locals and tourists fearing for their lives.
The vibrant city of Scarborough has played host to cultural assets like Richard Hawley recently but residents and those visiting the area have been horrified by the darker side of the town. Alcohol, homelessness and anti-social behaviour has turned the area nasty and members of the public are worried current crime rate figures in the city are highlighting an ugly side to the seaside resort.
Police in the area say they are doing what they can to tackle town centre crime and have introduced a street drinking ban in an attempt to curb trouble.
Diane Sycamore, 53, and her unnamed husband, 49, were in town for ex-Pulp guitarist Hawley’s gig. Diane said: “We have been here lots of times before – we also visit Whitby and do both. It seems to be quite deprived. I think in the town centre itself there’s a lot of social issues.
“Housing is an issue as you do see quite a lot of homelessness – it would be good to get people off the streets.” The unnamed man further added there seems “a bit more on edge” than it used to be. Joanne Sullivan, 47, from Acklam, added Scarborough is a nice place for its central style.
She said: “We do come here very often – everything is central and I just like it. But we have noticed a few beggars and homeless people – but that seems to be everywhere now. I don’t think I would feel comfortable walking around at night.” Anne Dales, 67, who moved to the area from Driffield, said she wishes to return to her previous home.
She said of Scarborough: “We thought there would be job prospects, but there hasn’t been a lot. I wouldn’t say that we have enjoyed living here. No I wouldn’t feel comfortable [at night] you have got a lot of people swearing and looking for fights.” Scarborough man David Wharton, 62, added: “Scarborough is up there as being one of the top destinations. I don’t think I could live anywhere else. It’s in our blood.
“For a small town it can be a bit dangerous. The main issue is alcohol and drugs.” Lachlan Bradley, 23, who works at Pier Snack Bar and Grill told the Express: “Some bits are run down. Bits are decaying. There are less people since it had its heyday. It’s not as bad as some people say – but I wouldn’t walk alone in some areas. I know some bad characters no matter what the time of day.”
Despite the assessment from Mike Crofts, 64, who says the area is “past its best,” there was much to enjoy about the “gorgeous” city. Caroline Bowne, 60, said: “I think Scarborough is on the up. There are a lot of holiday makers and day trippers. I love it. It’s absolutely beautiful.”
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “North Yorkshire Police works collaboratively with North Yorkshire Council in Scarborough town to combat crime and disorder and to make it a safe space for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
“The night-time economy is well-managed by licensed premises thanks to the collective efforts of Licensing departments within both the police and council working alongside the Scarborough Neighbourhood Policing Team.
“We have a variety of operations in place around prevention and early intervention. These include Operation Vigilant which involves specialist behaviour detection techniques to identify those who pose harm to woman and girls, and ‘hotspot’ policing patrols using intelligence to clamp down on anti-social behaviour. We also have Operation Culture focusing on street drinkers which is significant concern in our community.”
