Pembroke Dock police install warning signs over anti‑social driving
New signs at Fort Road and Llanreath car parks aim to curb reckless driving near a hospital and care homes, backed by a zero‑tolerance policy.
Police have erected new warning signs at Fort Road and Llanreath car parks in Pembroke Dock as a direct response to a surge in anti‑social driving.
The signs, placed by officers from Pembroke Dock and Pembroke Police, alert motorists that the areas are under police surveillance.
“Did you know that police can seize and remove vehicles involved in ASB and if you drive outside of your policy terms, your insurance may be cancelled or your premiums increased?” the notice reads.
Further wording on the signs warns that “Police are operating a zero tolerance policy for any anti‑social driving, this can also lead to fines and penalty points.” Please drive carefully and with consideration for others.”
The move follows a resident’s revelation at a town council meeting last June that drivers had been treating Fort Road as a race track, revving engines and blasting horns late into the night.
The complaints highlighted the proximity of the car park to a hospital and residential care facilities, raising concerns about noise and safety for vulnerable patients.
While some locals have reported no personal experience of anti‑social driving, many welcomed the signage as a “step in the right direction”.
Town councillor Claire Francis‑Boswell expressed cautious optimism, stating, “Hoping this will make the ASB ‘visitors’ be aware things are being watched.” Year after year the residents at these beautiful places are being plagued by ever increasing worrying behaviour.”
Francis‑Boswell pledged to work closely with police and County Councillor Jamie Street to maintain a sharp focus on the car parks and surrounding roads.
She added that she is happy to speak with anyone who has been affected by the problem.
Social media users, however, have voiced scepticism, questioning whether unlit signs alone will deter offenders without visible police presence at night.
Comments on local forums suggest that drivers may simply ignore static warnings unless they see patrols or receive active enforcement.
Police spokespersons confirmed that the signs are part of a broader strategy that includes regular patrols and the use of automatic number‑plate recognition cameras.
Officers have been instructed to intervene swiftly, with the authority to seize vehicles that breach the anti‑social driving code.
The policy also allows for the issuance of fixed‑penalty notices and the allocation of penalty points on offending licences.
Local residents hope the combined approach of signage and enforcement will restore calm to the car parks, which have long served as convenient access points for shoppers and visitors.
Fort Road car park, situated close to the Royal Pembrokeshire Hospital, has seen an increase in traffic during evenings, prompting concerns from patients and staff alike.
Llanreath car park, adjacent to a residential care home, has similarly been flagged for late‑night disturbances.
Both sites are now marked with the new warnings, which are illuminated by reflective material to remain visible after dark.
Police have urged drivers to respect the signs and reminded them that repeated offences could lead to insurance repercussions.
“We want to protect the community and ensure that these spaces remain safe for everyone,” a senior officer said.
Community groups have welcomed the initiative but stress the need for ongoing monitoring to gauge its effectiveness.
One local resident, who declined to be named, noted that the presence of police officers during peak hours has already reduced the frequency of reckless driving.
He added that the signs serve as a useful reminder that authorities are watching.
Council officials plan to review the impact of the signage after a three‑month period, with the possibility of additional measures if required.
In the meantime, drivers are urged to adhere to speed limits, avoid unnecessary honking, and show consideration for nearby residents.
The new signs are part of a wider effort across Pembrokeshire to curb anti‑social behaviour on public roads and in communal spaces.
Authorities hope that the combined deterrent of visible warnings and active policing will restore peace to Pembroke Dock’s car parks.
Residents are encouraged to report any further incidents through the council’s online portal or by contacting the local police non‑emergency number.
As the community watches closely, the effectiveness of the signs will be measured not just by reduced complaints, but by a tangible decline in disruptive driving.