The police and council have received complaints from residents about gay cruising in Barnes Common – and the “unpleasant” litter left behind.

Mortlake and Barnes Common safer neighbourhood team Sergeant, Will Jack, said sordid rubbish had been a problem on the common for several years, but the number of complaints was higher this summer than in previous years. He said his team was working with council and community groups to find a long-term solution to the problem.

“It’s a difficult situation to police, a lot of litter that is left is left at night,” he said.

“There appears to be very few witnessed sexual acts during the day time.”

The council is considering installing more bins on the common to help reduce the amount of litter and general rubbish and dog mess.

It is also examining ways to tackle the issue of cruising.

Councillor David Williams, Richmond Council’s cabinet member for communities, said: “We are aware of a small number of complaints from residents about cruising, and are consulting with the police and the borough’s lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender forum to address this. In the meantime, I would urge anybody not to put themselves at risk by getting involved in this sort of activity.”

Borough commander, Detective Chief Superintendent Rick Turner, also said police were aware of concerns about cruising and had been liaising with relevant community groups.

He said: “Where positive action and enforcement is needed, our safer neighbourhood teams will do that.

“I do not believe there is a major problem in the borough but any allegations are taken very seriously.”

There is no law specifically outlawing sex in a public place, but if caught, people would most likely be charged with outraging public decency or under a public order offence.

The police and council are to hold a meeting to discuss the issue surrounding Barnes Common on Monday.

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