A vandal-hit park and ride building has been shut for the weekend following a spate of criminal damage.

Canterbury City Council has been forced to close the waiting area at the city's Sturry Road facility as a result of ongoing anti-social behaviour.

Buses are still running from the site as normal but the authority says it has made the decision to shut off the building following police advice.

In a statement, the city council said: "We have closed the terminal building where the toilets and seats are, and apologise for any inconvenience this causes."

Sharing on Facebook, city councillor Louise Harvey-Quirke said: "This is as a result of ongoing anti-social behaviour, including groups of youths starting fires and criminal damage, which the police are investigating.

"The council is continuing to provide CCTV footage and intelligence to both Stagecoach and officers to help tackle the problem."

It was only this week that Sturry residents were left feeling like 'prisoners in their own homes' after being terrorised by antisocial youths.

Many had been subjected to verbal and racial abuse, and had their homes vandalised.

Cllr Harvey-Quirke said: "About half a dozen residents have been on the receiving end of some quite horrific anti-social behaviour, which has caused them a great deal of distress.

"Some of the culprits have even gone onto private properties and kicked front doors, thrown things at the houses and windows, and damaged cars."

She added that most of the culprits are thought to be aged between 16 and 18, and recognised to be local.

'I urge people who witness any nuisance behaviour or criminal damage to report it...'

Following the multiple reports of anti-social behaviour, police introduced a '48-hour dispersal order' on Friday, which allows officers to move on anyone causing nuisance behaviour.

Anyone who returns to the area once dispersed risks arrest.

Areas that are covered by the order include A28 Sturry Road, Stour Crescent and Vauxhall Road.

Chief Inspector Matthew Smith said: "Officers are carrying out patrols of the area this weekend, in response to concerns about a number of young people causing criminal damage to commercial premises, throwing eggs and other items at vehicles, general anti-social behaviour and causing distress to the public.

"It’s not acceptable and anyone seen carrying out such actions will be robustly dealt with. Those who are under 16 and continue to offend should also expect an officer to contact their parents or guardians to discuss why their behaviour won’t be tolerated.

"I urge people who witness any nuisance behaviour or criminal damage to report it to police on 101 (999 if a crime is in progress) or via our website so it can be dealt with appropriately."

The Sturry Road park and ride closure will be reviewed early next week.