Portable display boards are being used to target specific problems in the Troon area, such as the inappropriate use of quad bikes on the beach, and to warn offenders of the consequences of their actions.

The A3 sized boards can be easily moved from one location to another, and are being used to get important messages out to the public, and let anyone who may be thinking of acting inappropriately that the Police are giving extra attention to the area.

The Chairman of the South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership, Councillor Douglas Campbell said: “The Community Safety Partnership purchased five display boards that will be used to tackle specific issues in the Troon area.

“Some of the boards are being used to inform people that using a quad bike on a public road or on the beach is an offence. The message on the board informs people that such action is not permitted, and that if they continue their irresponsible actions then the Police will take action.

“If there was a spate of housebreakings or car crime then the boards could be updated with new information and quickly moved to another location. The public would then be informed of the situation and be extra vigilant, and importantly, it would reassure people that the Police are giving extra attention to the area.”

If the pilot scheme in the Troon area is successful then the use of portable display boards may be expanded to other areas of South Ayrshire.

Pictured at Troon beach with some of the new display boards are (left to right) Ian Woodburn, Head of Public Protection and Safety with the Council, Councillor Douglas Campbell, Chair of the Community Safety Partnership, Councillor Peter Convery, Elected Member for Troon South, and local Community Police Officers PC Bobby Bell and PC Fiona Davidson.

July 2005