POLICE have promised to crackdown on drug use and antisocial behaviour in Honeywell following numerous incidents in recent months - but a local councillor says more still needs to be done to stop the issue.

According to the Police UK website, dozens of incidents of drug use and problem behaviour have been reported to Barnsley North Neighbourhood Policing Team officers over the last 12 months.

It’s resulted in officers promising to crackdown on the issue and regularly patrolling the area.

Recently, a property was closed by the police due to its link to crime and officers have confirmed that this is still the case.

A spokesperson for Barnsley North NPT, said: “This remains a key area of concern for suspected drug activity involving vehicles.

“We carried out patrols and vehicle checks to disrupt activity and provide a strong visible presence.

“If you’re using the area for the wrong reasons, you may start seeing a lot more of us.

“We conducted visits at addresses linked to reports of drug activity and antisocial behaviour.

“Closure order processes are underway for properties identified as causing significant issues, with the aim of restoring peace and quiet for local residents.

“One current closure order property was checked and confirmed secure - exactly how we like it.”

Officers have also confirmed they are cracking down on one area, Tinkers Pound, around suspected drug use.

Nitrous oxide is reportedly being used, with large bottles left behind and picked up by officers.

Known as ‘laughing gas’, it causes euphoria, dizziness and mild dissociation, leading to its misuse as a recreational drug for a brief ‘high’.

The spokesperson added: “We conducted vehicle checks near the community farm following previous reports involving several specific vehicles and suspected nitrous oxide use.

“Whilst it was all quiet on the horizon upon arrival, let’s just say the evidence left behind suggests some people need to find better hobbies.

“The area will remain on our patrol plan.”

Coun Clive Pickering, who represents the Old Town ward as a Lib Dem, said he has been aware of incidents in Honeywell and around Tinkers Pond for some time.

He told the Chronicle: “I welcome the police attention to the nitrogen oxide problem.

“It is particularly bad in the valley and areas around Tinkers Pond.

“Unfortunately the needles problem and the cleaning up of them is an issue throughout the ward, especially on Huddersfield Road and Burton Bank.

“If you discover any please report the location.

“Violence around drugs is all too common.

“I have been attacked by drug users and my van badly damaged by dealers trying to smash their way in.

“The police response was inadequate and over the entire issue of drugs, more commitment is needed and actual prosecutions.

“At present the public lack confidence when they can see dealing taking place publicly.”