March 13, 2020 5.04 pm This story is over 48 months old

Grimsby Library plans to shut out drug and alcohol users

People have left behind human waste and drug paraphernalia
Grimsby Library. Photo: Google Streetview

A new security shutter could be installed at Grimsby library in a bid to tackle antisocial behaviour which has seen staff threatened and human excrement left at the door.

Engie, on behalf of North East Lincolnshire Council, has applied for planning permission to install a second roller shutter at the front of the lobby space.

Documents before the council say people taking shelter under the canopies often become aggressive towards staff.

A spokesman for the authority said there have been points where around five or six people in the small space.

Some of the offenders are known to be rough sleepers, however, library staff have also had problems with a number of drug and alcohol users.

Designs submitted to North East Lincolnshire Council.

“The anti-social behaviour has ranged from a refusal to move on and allow staff to clean the steps, to verbal abuse and leaving behind human waste and drug paraphernalia,” said the spokesman.

“Our outreach services are engaging with those we know to be rough sleeping to offer them support.”

The cost of the installation has not been confirmed yet, however when the railings were installed they cost around £13,000.

One resident has already objected to the plans. Mr Wright called the shutters “crude and soulless” and feared they would be subject to graffiti and vandalism.

“What’s the point of enhancing Town Hall Square with an attractive new pavement, only to spoil it with the introduction of roller shutters?” He asked.

He suggested instead that the council should hire a security officer to open and close the premises.

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