A town council in Norfolk has brought in a security firm to maintain order at its meetings.
It comes after disruption at recent Thetford Town Council meetings meant police were called twice.
Members of the public have shouted over the mayor and prevented others from asking questions, leaving some people afraid to attend meetings, according to the local authority.
Meeting attendees have also moved into the area where council staff and members sit, which the council described as ‘intimidating behaviour’.
Thetford said it consulted with stakeholders, including Norfolk Police, and was advised to hire a private security firm to maintain order.
It will cost £180 per meeting, which will be funded through reserves if the council cannot make budget savings.
A spokesperson said the security would ‘make it safer for councillors, staff and members of the public who have a genuine desire to engage with the council constructively’.
