Sint-Niklaas installs cameras in Sportkringpark to combat persistent nuisance, including from fatbikes

The city of Sint-Niklaas is installing three surveillance cameras in the newly opened Sportkringpark to address ongoing nuisance and vandalism. The park, which includes a new swimming pool, has been open for only a month but has already faced disturbances, with some issues occurring even before its official opening. A significant part of the problem involves young people riding fatbikes, whose wide tires damage the park's grass. Mayor Lieven Dehandschutter described the park as a large area with limited social control, acknowledging that fatbike-related problems are unfortunately present in Sint-Niklaas, as they are in other municipalities. The three cameras, located near the football fields, are awaiting approval from the city council before they become active. Once operational, the police will continuously monitor the footage. Dehandschutter emphasized a preventive approach, stating that the police's youth officer will engage in dialogue with young people. However, he also indicated that decisive action would be taken if necessary. Sint-Niklaas has previously used cameras to tackle nuisance in other areas. The mayor believes cameras provide visibility into problems and enable swift intervention. While acknowledging that some issues might shift locations, he expressed confidence in managing problems by addressing them directly. The goal is not only to monitor but also to identify the young individuals involved, allowing for dialogue, potential confiscation of fatbikes, or imposing bans from the park.

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It is a large area, with little social control.