A CAR park in Bolton which has been plagued by drug taking and anti-social behaviour is set to have tight opening hours to tackle the problem.

Numerous reports have been made over the years of people taking drugs such as nitrous oxide – known as laughing gas – at Horrocks Wood car park on Scout Road over the years.

Large of groups of young people have often gathered at the site, leaving behind trails of rubbish such as empty nitrous oxide cannisters.

Loud music has been played there too.

And now action is being taken to combat anti-social behaviour, as from Monday, October 26 the car park will be locked from 5.30pm and will not be reopened until 7.30am the following morning.

The Bolton News:

A litter picker at the car park in 2017

The Bolton News:

The notice about the car parking's new opening hours, which are set to be introduced on Monday, October 26

A police spokesman said: "Following complaints of anti-social behaviour, loud music and drug misuse, as of Monday, October 26, Horrocks Wood car park on Scout Road will be closing at 5.30pm and reopening at 7:30am."

The site is managed by the Forestry Commission with security arranged by Bolton Security Ltd.

Astley Bridge councillors have welcomed the decision.

Cllr Paul Wild said: "We are in favour of the new opening hours.

"Over the years we have received quite a number of complaints of suspected drug use on the car park.

"We welcome it as winter is coming now and not as many people will be using the car park.

"People using it between 5.30pm and 7.30am are likely to be there for mischievous uses.

"We are delighted some positive action is going to be taken and hopefully this is another problem solved."

Cllr John Walsh expressed his delight over the move as well.

He said: "This is what I have been asking to happen for the last four years.

"I am delighted the car park is going to be locked up.

"I am fully aware of the problems there with the litter from the nitrous oxide cannisters, you could weigh them in with the amount that are left there."

The new opening times will make the experience better for those who use the site for the purposes of exercise, Cllr Walsh added.