EVEN its most fervent admirers would admit that the Millennium Bridge has had its problems. Hit by production delays and the floods, it was inched into place across the Ouse many months late. Since then, cracks in its surface, vandalism and rowdy behaviour have stripped the gloss from what remains a stunning addition to York's landscape.

Today, an exasperated York police Chief Inspector Andy Bell spoke out. He said the bridge "represents a major nuisance problem". His officers have to respond to reports of children jumping off the bridge into the river, throwing mud at boats and drinking alcohol.

These problems are nothing new, of course. Young people have messed around by the river since time immemorial. Under-age drinking and rowdiness are hardly unknown here or anywhere else.

Only the location is different. The Millennium Bridge has provided a natural meeting point for teenagers who have little else to do in York. Its distance from the city centre makes it less easy to monitor, another attraction for young people seeking independence from adults.

One thing should be made clear: they have every right to congregate at the bridge. This is meant to be an amenity for the whole city, including teenagers. Most of them cause no trouble; they are simply enjoying the summer.

That is not to ignore the handful of youngsters whose behaviour is unacceptable. Most worrying of all are the reports of children diving into the water. The Ouse is very dangerous: the fast-flowing undercurrents can catch out the strongest swimmer. However tempting the river looks on a hot day, children must know the risks. We do not want a summer tragedy.

As for the louts, the recently-installed CCTV camera should provide enough evidence to mount prosecutions against them. That would deliver a strong message to everyone at the bridge: you are under surveillance and boorishness will not be tolerated.

The Millennium Bridge is a wonderful facility. Swift action against the minority of troublemakers should ensure it never becomes a liability.

Updated: 12:53 Friday, July 27, 2001