ACTION has been taken to tackle escalating anti-social behaviour in two Hampshire villages.

‘Operation Aquatic’ has been launched in Netley and Hamble to make sure there is a more visible police presence in the area.

This comes after reports of issues concerning anti-social behaviour in the area which have now escalated to “beyond acceptable levels” according to the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).

Last week, Eastleigh MP, Paul Holmes met with the Hampshire PCC, Donna Jones in Hamble to discuss the problems.

He said: “Many constituents have contacted me about the ongoing Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) in Hamble and Netley and this is hugely concerning.

“To try and tackle this, I have been working closely with the Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, and I am pleased to report that together we have initiated ‘Operation Aquatic’.

“This specific Police operation should help ensure that there is a much more visible Police presence in the area and that those responsible for causing ASB, are brought to justice.”

Now police are increasing patrols and specifically targetting hotspots like Hamble Quay.

Daily Echo: Eastleigh MP, Paul Homes with Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones and police in Hamble.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said: “This has enabled us to have positive conversations with local residents and provide reassurance that we’re doing all that we can in order to prevent further issues.

“The feedback that we have received from local residents while out on patrol and from local partners has been positive, and we will seek to continue to work together to reduce similar issues throughout the summer period.”

PCC, Donna Jones added: “I’ll be continuing to scrutinise the force to see how ASB in this area is being tackled.

“I am also going to be working with Hampshire County Council to consider options of how to make the pontoon area at the River Hamble safer, in particular with netting and reviewing the current security arrangements and have contacted the Chief Executive of the county council about this matter.

“Last week I also launched an ASB task force to bring police and partners together to collaboratively tackle these types of local ASB problems.”