Norwich's Haymarket McDonald's sees increased police patrols

A police van was parked outside the Haymarket branch of the popular fast-food chain last week in an attempt to youngsters to move on from the area.

It comes after the 150-foot William Booth Street located directly next door was named as the city's most crime-ridden street, with more offences committed in it than in the entire town of Acle during 2022.

Police in the area last week (Image: Norfolk police)

Police said the Easter holidays had seen an increase in young people hanging out in the area after those living in the east of the city had raised concerns about numerous public order incidents in the area directly in front of McDonald's.

It comes after police asked city folk to identify their policing priorities for the year.

Officers say they dealt with groups of young people in the area and deterred them from taking part in anti-social behaviour.

One woman, who works in a nearby shop, said she had seen groups beginning to congregate when closing her store.

The area outside McDonald's where youths have been reported loitering (Image: Newsquest)

She said: "We see them gathering around there when we close late.

"What are the parents doing? Surely the kids can do something better than sit around McDonald's all evening?

"When I've been in there for a snack they very rarely have something to eat and just sit there shouting and throwing things about.

"There's also a lot of playing loud music which is really annoying when you're just trying to eat."

Those working in the area also raised concerns about littering in the area from multiple fast food outlets surrounding it.

Anyone who sees incidents in the area has been urged to contact the police via email at SNTNorwichEast@norfolk.police.uk.

Police will be increasing patrols outside McDonald's (Image: Newsquest)

McDonald's has been contacted for comment.