Concerns over anti-social behaviour at Dam Lane shops

The shops on Dam Lane have had reoccurring issues with youths shouting, swearing, spitting, littering and causing criminal damage in recent months.

John Parker, of Dermaclear Advanced Cosmetics, says that blood was even smeared over the windows of his units while human waste and drug paraphernalia is also a 'regular sight'.

He has also criticised a lack of investment from the property's owners – highlighting issues such as uneven flooring, defective lighting and broken railings.

Mr Parker said: "The precinct is quickly becoming a blot on the landscape.

"No investment has been seen, and it is slowly becoming an uninviting and ugly place.

"The landlord regularly collects rent and ridiculous service charges, for no return.

"All businesses on the upper floor are considering closing and moving away.

"The precinct could be a vibrant and welcoming place in a great community, but it is being spoiled by a few for the many.

"It is hell trying to run a business around here.

"Certain members of the community will not come to the area."

Aston Rose, the shopping centre's management company, says that it plans to complete works including relaying paving slabs and repainting road markings on the car park in the near future.

A spokesman added: "The landlord has a programme in place for external redecoration.

“The last redecoration was undertaken in 2014, and the next redecoration is due in spring 2021.

“Aston Rose took over the management of the Dam Lane shops in September 2019, and has undertaken both a general risk assessment and security specific risk assessments to identify and address any safety issues on site.

“Recommendations from these reports are being priced and will be actioned on a priority basis.

“The responsibility of addressing anti-social behaviour is not the sole responsibility of a landowner.

“Input from parents, the local community and police force have a far greater impact before such behaviour reaches the Dam Lane shops.

“We continue to work with the local police and tenants to look at practical measures to assist in deterring anti-social behaviour.”

Meanwhile, Cheshire Police has dealt with a number of youths in relation to criminal damage and public order offences in the area – resulting in some teens paying compensation or apologising to their victims.