A rise in crime and anti-social behaviour has left many locals too afraid to walk the streets at night in Swansea. Businesses owners in Swansea say they are being forced to close down due to increased anti-social behaviour which is driving customers away.
Some locals say they are now too afraid to walk the once bustling high street at night which is now blighted by boarded-up shop fronts and abandoned buildings. They thought I was a prostitute. A dark alleyway running the length of the street - dubbed 'Condom Alley' - has up to 20 sex workers operating every night in plain sight. Just 16 months ago Swansea was hoping to become the UK's city of Culture in but hopes were dashed and it lost out to rival Coventry.
Proprietors around say they are not getting the protection they need from police following a number of violent and troubling incidents in recent months.
Gez Couch, who took over as landlord of The White Swan just last year, has already decided to call time on his ownership of the pub. Local garage owner Mohamed Sahel said: "When I arrive at 7am to open up, I spend the first 10 minutes clearing away the needles and condoms that have been deposited outside my workshop.
He added that the council send cleaners every morning but said he doesn't always have time to wait for them to show up. By Neil Murphy. News, views and top stories in your inbox. Don't miss our must-read newsletter Sign up When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters.
