MULTI-STOREY car-parks in a Hampshire town are to be closed overnight, to stop rough sleepers and drug users from using them.

Fareham Borough Council says it made the decision following complaints from shoppers.

Security teams have also been deployed at Osborn Road Car Park, with overnight patrols starting this week.

External shutters are also to be fitted to Fareham Shopping Centre Car Park, off Civic Way.

However, the authority, along with Gosport Borough Council, will now also be funding extra beds at Two Saints homeless hostel, on Gosport Road, to encourage those sleeping rough to take up the specialist help, instead of enduring the cold.

The two councils have pledged £20,000 each.

Fareham council leader Councillor Seán Woodward, said: “We have to respond to the needs of our shoppers to keep them using their high street and have an obligation to businesses to keep trade coming into the town. This measure protects the public and offers help to vulnerable people in need.”

The council says that shoppers have reported feeling scared, outraged, frightened or intimidated by rough sleepers and drug users.

The overnight closures mean Osborn Road Car Park and the main shopping centre car parks will open Monday to Saturday 7.30am to 6.30pm and 9am to 4.30pm on Sunday.

Nevertheless, Osborn Road car park will still be open for users of Ferneham Hall on event nights.