Broadfield Park

Broadfield Park, Rochdale town centre.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/107950/man-raped-in-broadfield-park

and

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/106038/man-raped-in-broadfield-park

How can Broadfield Park be made safe? 24 hour security patrols?

One would have to ask what someone was doing in the park at that hour.

The chances of sufficient police (or security) patrols being deployed to remove the risk are very scant indeed I would say - but it would solve unemployment issues...

Firstly I have to report that such goings on in Broadfield Park are commonplace although it is usually between consenting adults and as such are eluded to in my book Ower Darkling written initially in 1970's and referencing the 1950's. One was always advised to cross the park in two's, never alone. So history keeps on repeating. And apart from science there's nowt new under the sun.

A google shows Broadfield Park, and other green spaces round Rochdale, Hollingworth Lake, etc., listed as 'cruising' venues. http://www.cruisinggays.com/rochdale/c/areas/

R.M.B.C. should take reasonable responsibility for safety of the public in their essential 'green spaces' and parks. As Johnb says, to be in a Rochdale town centre park in the hours of darkness is risky.

Green spaces should not be no-go areas. The park rapists are described as ruthless, and of large build. http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/106038/man-raped-in-broadfield-park
Warning people away without making places safer can be a negative spiral.

In the 50's and 60's it was regularly patrolled by beat cops who managed to rid the areas of those that were 'lurking' - and of course us who had sneaked along to watch the proceedings. Security patrols (2 in number) might alleviate the problem - but who pays? Rapists are cunning creatures and would quickly assess the 'safe' times. A number of 'plants' might do the trick if one knows the sequence of previous attacks, but it is hit and miss. It is to be hoped the perpetrators are soon apprehended.

This apparently long established reputation and use of Broadfield park, in the town centre, as an established venue for socio-sexual activities of various types adds to the general unpleasantness.

It might add more to the town, to declare the area a site of special scientific interest for whatever reason, close it off, give it back to nature, dig a newt pond and only allow accesss to schools for nature study.

The unpleasant activity would move elsewhere of course, but it's up to Rochdale town centre management to decide what sort of activities they wish to support.

Drone patrols are the coming answer to anti-social behaviours. The sooner they are set up across the country the better it will be for everyone. If you are behaving yourself what have you to hide? Big Brother was always on the cards but providing the people keep control of their democracy there should be nothing to fear. Question is - who watches the watchers?