There are several issues surrounding seafront shelters in current times, anti social behaviour being one of them. The shelters by their very nature are 'shelters' where people can gather, and as a piece of public architecture belonging to us all, are open 24 hours a day, not secured and don't generate an income. This means they can be used by anyone at any time, including those who may not have the shelters at their best interest.
Antisocial behaviour in shelters could take place in terms of providing cover and seating for noisy groups of people, for drinking and drug taking, but one of the most obvious to the general public is vandalism and criminal damage.
Vandalism could take place to draw attention to something, because of frustration, or by misguided playfulness.....but this post isn't to discuss the 'whys' of vandalism, but to highlight some of the problems that this kind of behaviour can cause. The below are some examples of vandalism that has taken place over the last 2 years in seaside shelters around the UK;
Arson in Paignton (left) and Felixstowe (right)
Credits: Devon Live and Ipswich Star
Boarded up shelters due to damage in Worthing (left) and Dollymount (right)
Credits: Sussex Express and Independent IE
Smashed glass and timber in Brighton (left) and Herne Bay (right)
Credit: Brighton and Hove News and Kent Online
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