Snoopers may force move

A Black Country girls aerobics and dance group could be moved because youths have been climbing onto a roof to spy on them and take photos.

The sessions for 12 to 16-year-olds at Ashmore Park Youth Centre, Wednesfield, face being transferred to Park Village Youth and Culture Centre, Cannock Road, to protect the girls’ privacy.

But with parents protesting, Wednesfield North councillors Dave Jones and Phil Bateman are lobbying to keep the group at Ashmore Park.

Councillor Jones said: “Following criticism from some parents of children attending Ashmore Park Youth Centre about the move, Councillor Phil Bateman and I have been investigating the complaints. There has been some local resentment towards that course of action.

“We can report that the youth service made that decision because young men were climbing onto the roof to watch the girls aerobics and dance group in the recreation room.

“The boys were taking photos with their mobiles through the upper windows.

“Various steps were taken to address the issue but the girls were uncomfortable and asked if their activity could move to another site.”

Councillor Jones said he hopes Ashmore Park Youth Club staff will take action.

Councillor Bateman said: “I for one would not criticise the youth leaders for taking the action that they have in keeping the activity going, even if it takes place in Park Village, but the issue needed to be confronted.”

He said blinds will be put on the windows to reassure the girls their privacy will be protected. Councillor Bate-man added: “We are very grateful to the youth service management for dealing with it in this way.

“Now we hope to have the event taking place on Ashmore Park, and some improvements made.

“But I do hope that staff will keep a watchful eye.”