Barry Town Council has temporarily reduced the opening hours of its offices at Town Hall following a series of anti-social behaviour incidents in King Square, including reports of verbal abuse and threats directed at council staff.
The council announced the move in a social media statement, describing the decision as "difficult but necessary" after what it said had been a significant increase in anti-social behaviour in the area over the past week.
It comes as local business owners on Holton Road have reported groups of around 50 young people, "causing havoc" in recent days, with one trader stating King Square was "teething with young people at 5:30 - 6:00, with Zero Police presence"
As a result, the Town Hall offices will now be open for in-person visits from 8.30 am until 3 pm, Monday to Friday.
Despite the change, the council said it will continue to deal with telephone calls and emails after 3 pm each day, ensuring residents can still access services and support outside of the revised opening hours.
In its statement, Barry Town Council made clear that the welfare of employees was the priority, saying it would not tolerate any form of abuse towards staff.
The move highlights ongoing concerns about anti-social behaviour in parts of Barry town centre, particularly around King Square, which has previously been the focus of efforts by local authorities and partner organisations to improve safety and tackle nuisance behaviour.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police told Bro Radio that "they were committed to keeping Barry safe and identifying those responsible for the recent issues in King Square"
"Everyone has the right to feel safe, wherever they are, and nobody should be subjected to threats, verbal abuse, and anti-social behaviour."
"The Neighbourhood Policing Team is doing directed patrols in the area, and we ask the public to please keep reporting incidents and providing information."
South Wales Police is encouraging residents and business owners to report any issues via 101 or https://www.south-wales.police.uk/ro/report and to always call 999 in an emergency.
Residents who are unable to visit the Town Hall during the revised opening hours for Barry Town Council are being encouraged to contact the council directly to arrange an alternative appointment on 01446 738663 or email info@barrytowncouncil.gov.uk.
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