Salford Quays residents say they are being overwhelmed as hundreds of teenagers use the water for unauthorised swimming and antisocial behaviour in breach of social distancing laws.

The area has become a popular spot as lockdown has eased for youngsters who have been diving in to the water to cool down on hot days.

Teenagers have been congregating in large groups, drinking, playing loud music and jumping off the bridges into the water.

Youths gathered around the waterfront,

The water, which isn’t routinely manned, is extremely dangerous and Salford Council warns the public not to swim unsupervised.

“The risk of drowning through cold water shock is real,” states the website.

But residents say youngsters are ignoring the ban on unauthorised swimming in the Quays.

One resident who has lived in Salford for more than 14 years has now considered moving out of Salford due to the spike in crime and antisocial behaviour.

“It’s like a magnet … it’s not policed,” the resident said.

“Every corner you turn on the Quays there’s gangs of thirty plus [teenagers] … it’s not a very nice and welcoming environment,” he continued.

Large groups are causing havoc for locals as they drink, play music and create noise.

“They’re urinating obviously because there’s no public toilets,” says the resident.

Crime Statistics for Salford.

The large groups are flouting Government social distancing measures but residents say council and police are not taking any action.

  • Organised water sport activities for locals and visitors are held regularly by the Helly Hansen Water Sports Centre which offers an array of options for those interested in using the water safely.

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