Children are causing so much mayhem at one Merseyside McDonald's, a bouncer is needed on the door.
The fast-food's outlet in Liscard has been blighted with kids causing anti-social behaviour over the years, including one incident where a firework was thrown inside the crowded restaurant. It is believed the attack was "revenge" by children who had been banned from the store.
One mum, who did not want to be named, told the ECHO she was concerned to see a bouncer on the door when she took her son to get a meal. Police were also at the restaurant.
READ MORE: 'This road was beautiful once, now we've just got Asda'
She said: "I took my son to McDonald's and I was shocked to see a police presence and lots of young kids just hanging round outside. While I was there I felt safe inside, but it was worrying to see a bouncer on the door and some of the kids started deliberately pushing each other against the window, which could be seen as intimidating behaviour.
"I realise it can be hard for children who want their own space and independence and it is hard finding a place to do that, but I would be annoyed if I found that is what my teenager wanted to do in the evening. The staff, and police especially, have better things to do.
"So I would encourage parents to speak to their children and talk about alternative spaces they can go to - although I fear that list is small for many reasons."
A McDonald's spokesperson confirmed they had "introduced a number of measures", including hiring a security guard.
They said: “We are aware of anti-social behaviour affecting the wider area, and have introduced a number of measures in our Liscard restaurant to support the police in tackling this issue. These include employing a security guard, and working proactively with Wirral Borough Council and community partners. We are committed to being a good neighbour in the local community.”
Merseyside Police also said due to a number of reports of anti-social behaviour at McDonald's and in the surrounding area an increased police presence was there.
Wirral’s local policing inspector Sharon Robinson said: “We have received reports of anti-social behaviour at McDonald's Liscard and in the immediate area. As a result we have increased high-visibility patrols to deal with any issues and prevent offences from taking place.
“Our local policing team is in regular contact with the owner of the Liscard branch, and together we are working in partnership, including providing advice, to prevent issues from occurring. We are also working with Wirral Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team, local community groups and schools officers to identify suspects and take action, as well as engaging with young people on acceptable behaviour.
“Anti-social behaviour is a community priority, and as part of this we are looking at improving environmental factors such as street lighting and CCTV in the area. I would urge parents and guardians to know where their child is and what they are up to so they are not causing unnecessary distress to residents and those visiting Liscard.”
Wirral Council leader and councillor for Liscard Janette Williamson said the local authority has fought to keep youth services open after cuts from the government. She also urged children and teenagers to join the local youth team in the area.
She said: "Liscard is a great place to live, work and eat out, and no-one needs any kind of nuisance behaviour when they’re trying to enjoy their dinner in peace. I was a mum of a teenager myself, and I know it’s not easy entertain young people and to find a safe space for them to socialise with their friends.
"Wirral Labour is working hard, in the face of year on year of Conservative government cuts, to support communities, maintain youth services and reduce anti-social behaviour. This week, in our 2023 budget, youth services were earmarked for closure. We fought to keep them, and won.
"I would urge young people aged 13 to 19 who are looking for something to do in the evenings to join our brilliant youth team at Mill Lane fire station from Tuesday - Saturday, 7pm to 10pm. It’s 50p a session.
"We also managed to keep our police community patrol and the CCTV room. This, again, helps to reduce this kind of issue, which impacts our communities."
Always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can pass any information on anti-social behaviour via our social media desk @MerPolCC on Twitter or 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook.
You can also contact the independent charity Crime stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
READ NEXT:
Updates as police and ambulance surround rock climbing gym
Family's old hen-party tradition on busy city centre street
Police called after car crashes into building
'This road was beautiful once, now we've just got Asda'
Things to do in Liverpool with kids: 22 family activities and attractions in and around Liverpo
