A call has been made for football pitches in a town park for young people to reduce anti-social behaviour in the area. 

Stonelodge Park, which sits next to Chantry Library, has seen a rise in the number of incidents and concerns from councillors and residents.

Borough councillor Colin Smart, who represents the Sprites ward, raised the matter during last month's southwest area committee meeting.

He told committee members that the play area in the park was in a secluded spot, hidden by Royston Drive.

In addition, resident Jill Haynes said in particular there were few activities aimed at young boys in the area, which was contributing to anti-social behaviour.

"If you look around this park, there is not much for teenage boys to do," Mrs Haynes said.

"There aren't any goals to have a kickabout or any other sport to do, so I think out of being bored they are drawn to finding something to be less bored, and I think anti-social behaviour was basically an outlet for them."

Mrs Haynes said there were not enough recreational activities for young people.  (Image: Google Maps) She added that there was no space in Chantry or Ellenbrook parks where people could play football.

However, she said the newly installed basketball court next to the park had been a good addition for young people. 

At the meeting last month, Suffolk Constabulary's PC Max Fordham agreed with Mrs Haynes' comments about the basketball court and said the youngsters were playing football on the court instead. 

He added that there has been a request for some goalposts to be installed in the green area along Royston Drive. 

PC Fordham had spoken with residents at Chantry Library and was aware of the issues, but residents were not reporting incidents for fear of repercussions.

He encouraged people to report incidents anonymously to Crimestoppers or via calling at 101, and not giving their names.