THE GATES to carpark which is a popular meeting place for car meets in Basingstoke will now be locked at night.

As previously reported Hampshire County councillor Stephen Reid held a meeting with a representative of JLL, the company responsible for managing Hatch Warren Retail Park.

Clle Reid confirmed that security is to be improved in the park's car park, in an attempt to stop it being misused for intrusive, noisy and dangerous car meets.

The Gazette has reported on numerous car meets in the past few months.

READ MORE: Cllr Stephen Reid calls for more to be done to stop car meets

Residents of the South West of Basingstoke have been concerned about the car meets that were first held in the Sainsbury’s car park and then switched to the Lidl car park after Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras were installed.

The noise endured by local residents and the danger caused by irresponsible driving led to many complaints and calls to the police.

Cllr Reid said: "I tracked down the company that manages the car park (JLL) and invited them to meet with me on site to discuss the problem. We had a positive conversation during which I pointed out the tyre marks left after the drifting and 'donutting' that had taken place.

"I am pleased to report that security is now going to be stepped up. JLL has told me that the gates to the car park will be locked at night. Starting on Monday 31st July, security staff will be securing the site from 10.30pm every evening going forward.

"JLL has also instructed that signs be displayed to inform the public of the opening and closing times. This will be installed as soon as possible. 

SEE ALSO: Staff employed to lock gates at Hatch Warren Retail Park

"Ironically the gates have been there, unused, for as long as I can remember. Now they will be used. A minority of selfish drivers have made these measures necessary through their irresponsible behaviour and flagrant disregard for local residents."

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson previously said: "We take the issue of dangerous driving at car meets seriously.

"It endangers the lives of those behind the wheel, anyone watching and the general public, and we know they can have a significant impact on local communities."