Teenagers 'continuing to cause problems' at Livingston shopping centre, councillors hear

Teenagers are continuing to cause problems with anti-social behaviour in and around Livingston shopping centre

In the latest round of local area committees, Livingston councillors heard of two youths arrested with weapons as part of joint initiatives to control bad behaviour.

Two years after the Local Democracy Reporting Service first highlighted antisocial behaviour (ASB) issues in Livingston’s shopping centre, it continues to be a magnet for youths from across the county.

“It continues to be a challenge,” a sergeant told councillors.

In his report to both Livingston South and Livingston North Local Area Committees, community officer Sgt Lee Brodie said that in the first three months of this year: “Despite regular patrols by police and Youth Action Project in relation to ASB issues around Livingston Shopping Centres, ASB continues to be an issue with youths from all areas of West Lothian being involved.

“Community officers actually arrested two youths carrying weapons in the Livingston centre, leading to both being given bail conditions not to attend at the centre, and the officers concerned have continued to engage with youth justice and other partnership organisations regarding the management of the youths concerned.”

Police continue to work in tandem with youth workers and security staff at the shopping centre. In addition, officers work in local high schools

“During Q4, community officers delivered inputs to all secondary school pupils in relation to the community impact of ASB, negative behaviours and how to be a good citizen.”

PC Gareth Oliver, a community officer who has successfully run Friday night football, has now taken on a post as positive behaviour and community learning officer.

In a report to councillors, Sgt Brodie added: “His role profile consists of the promotion of positive pupil behaviour and community learning both within our schools and in the community by providing support for pupils, teachers and parents/carers. This also includes contribution from both internal and external specialists to improve school attendance, reduce exclusions and ultimately increase positive destinations.

“During the reporting period, the officer delivered 1-1 sessions with allocated children, covering the ‘Happiness Heros’ topic online which looks at awareness of hate crime topics along with positive masculinity and conversations around ASB in both school settings and the community.

The report added: “Further to this, through ‘Inspire Academy’ he delivered the Pitchin’ In program which focuses on a range of topics including Anti-Social Behaviour, Hate Crime Awareness, Internet Safety.”

The LDRS first revealed in 2024 that Livingston centre had become a ‘go-to’ destination for teens from around the region, taking advantage of free bus travel to come from as far as Fife, causing issues for traders and security staff.