Chris Cooke

Calls are growing for the gate at the top of New Steine gardens in Kemp Town, home to the Brighton Aids Memorial, to be replaced.

The gate has been missing for a number of weeks now, and residents have been asking Council officers and the local Police for it to be reinstated as soon as possible.
 
The missing gate has led to an upturn in antisocial behaviour in the garden which culminated recently with the Aids Memorial being damaged by graffiti.
 
In addition the problems with street drinkers congregating in the area, a proliferation of dog walkers despite there being no dogs are allowed in the garden and the playing of ball games have led to the garden becoming not quite the haven it ought to be now the summer months are imminent.
 
The local police are also becoming increasingly annoyed at being called out at all hours of the day and night to deal with such anti social behaviour in what is predominantly a residential area.
 
Chris Cooke, recent Chair of the St.James's Area Local Action Team (LAT) summed up the feelings of a number of residents and businesses in the area, by saying:
"We would just like the gate put back as it was, which I believe will lead to a natural downturn in the antisocial behaviour.  I am working very closely with City Parks, the local Dog Wardens and the local Police to action its return and I am really pleased everyone is pulling together to make the New Steine what it ought to be - a much loved green space in the middle of Kemp Town.  Here's to the return of the gate"

Mike Dalley owner of Cardome Card Shop said:
"The gate should be replaced as quickly as possible and then we should have a general discussion as to whether the gates to the gardens should be locked every night to stop any further damage to the Aids Memorial."