Parking wardens could be drafted in to stop under-age drinking: VOTE

Staff would also be able to take names and addresses, under plans for South Yorkshire Police to share powers with local authorities.

The move could work both ways—with police officers being able to issue parking fines.

A Rotherham Borough Council spokeswoman said: “We’re working on plans to share powers to ensure local communities can receive the best immediate action to solve anti-social behaviour in their locality.

“The new approach will still make sure that there will be someone available to deal with an issue at the time without the need to draw down support or pass the job onto other services.

“This would include the issuing of fixed penalty notices beyond their current environmental and littering remit.

“Also, as part of providing a more integrated service, South Yorkshire Police may also take on some council powers that would allow them to address local issues, such as illegal car parking.”

Fines for throwing fireworks has also been selected as a priority power to be shared with council wardens, under the accredited person scheme.

Cllr Rose McNeely, Cabinet member for neighbourhoods, will consider the proposals at a meeting on Monday.

She welcomed the scheme, saying: “Anti-social behaviour is still felt by many to be the biggest blight on the enjoyment of their home and local area.

“We need to change that, and although our recorded anti-social behaviour is down more than 12 per cent on last year, we’re looking to having a greater, effective on-street presence.

“By doing so it will mean that we can also be more joined-up and efficient in targeting both problem localities and individuals.

“The more people we have on the street that have the right powers can only help be both a deterrent and effective response to the problems that occur.”

RMBC safer neighbourhoods manager, Mark Ford, added: “It has always been the case that one of the objectives of our working has been to ensure effective uniformed presence on the streets, further enhancing community confidence.”

If power-sharing proves successful, a long-term aim of the council would be to create new uniformed teams with powers to deal with all anti-social behaviour and public confidence issues.