A BASINGSTOKE supermarket has applied for a third party to monitor its car park following reports of anti-social behaviour.

As previously reported, Asda car park in Brighton Hill has been blighted by anti-social behaviour caused by car meets.

In November, police were called to the supermarket car park after a number of people in vehicles were gathered there.

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Now, Asda has confirmed that it has asked a third party to monitor the Basingstoke supermarket's car park, which could result in a time limit being set. 

A spokesperson said: “We have submitted an application for a third party to monitor our Basingstoke superstore car park, following reports of anti-social behaviour. This application has only recently been submitted and so we cannot comment further at this stage.”

Asda is yet to announce any further details.

The owner of the Saffron Tandori, which is next door to Asda in Brighton Hill Parade, said businesses at the centre are being consulted.

Manik Biswas told the Gazette that he believes a QR code will be created for his customers so they can stay as long as they want if Asda introduces a time limit for parking.

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“The car park belongs to Asda but we have equal right for our customers to park there,” he said, adding: “Nothing has been decided yet.”

Speaking about the problems caused by anti-social behaviour, he said: “They come and make noise. They will be really noisy and play loud music and speed. It’s young kids coming together and it is disturbing the surrounding area.”

Brighton Hill borough councillor Andrew McCormick said he had heard that Asda will be installing more CCTV instead of using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras which can be used to detect and deter crime.

However, the Basingstoke and Deane Labour group leader was concerned that a time limit for parking could impact other businesses in the area.