Surveillance signs have been put in place at a lay-by notorious for "outraging public decency and exposure".

Officers from the Thorpe St Andrew and Wroxham Safer Neighbourhood Team have installed the signs at the lay-by on the A1151, between Wroxham and Rackheath, to discourage anti-social behaviour.

It is the latest step in a multi-agency operation - also involving Broadland District Council - to end public order offences at the site.

Ongoing issues reported at the layby include outraging public decency and exposure as well as other offences such as fly-tipping and littering. 

On Friday, December 2, beat manager PC Al Jennings, sergeant Ollie Ketteridge, Broadland councillor Fran Whymark, early intervention and ASB officer Donna Fryer, and community safety interventions lead Teri Munro met at the lay-by to put up the signs stating that the area is now under surveillance.

It comes after patrols were increased back in September so officers could gather evidence of reported incidents.

A community meeting was then held on November 25 at the Hilltop Cafe to give members of the public a chance to air their views or to report incidents they have witnessed. 

Following the placing of the signs, any members of the public who are suspected to be repeatedly using the layby in an unlawful manner will be issued a Community Protection Warning.

If the offender’s behaviour continues, they will be given a Community Protection Notice.

Failing to comply with this will lead to an arrest. 

Sergeant Ollie Ketteridge said: "We’re really pleased with the progress that ourselves and the council have made in tackling this anti-social behaviour.

"Collaboration has been essential in problem-solving the issues and we believe the steps being taken will make a positive impact on the wider community." 

Broadland councillor for the Wroxham ward, Fran Whymark, added: "Everybody should be able to stop-off on a journey and enjoy our beautiful countryside without feeling nervous to do so.

"Families should be able to have a picnic at any time of the day without fear of seeing illegal, potentially upsetting activities. 

"Many people are being deprived of the legitimate use of the layby because of the behaviour of a few, and the positive work the police and council are doing will transform the location back to one the community can use without a second thought."