Purpose

There is an ongoing issue of
antisocial behaviour in the Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate
areas. The causes are complex. The Public Spaces Protection Order
(PSPO) is recognised by partner agencies as an effective tool for
dealing with such behaviour.
 
Council officers gathered and
analysed  the evidence base for the
restrictions proposed in the draft PSPO considered by Cabinet.
Cabinet was also asked to conscientiously consider the results of a
comprehensive consultation with residents, voluntary groups and
statutory consultees including the local chief officer of police;
the police and crime commissioner; owners or occupiers of land
within the affected area. Having carefully considered the evidence
base and the results of consultation Cabinet reviewed each of the
proposed restrictions.

Decision

Cabinet:
 
1. 
Gave full
consideration to the results of statutory consultation, the results
of which are attached at appendices 3, 4 and 5, in relation to the
proposed PSPO;
 
2. 
Considered the
evidence base detailed in the statements attached to this report
for a PSPO in the terms set out at appendix 2 of the Cabinet
report;
 
3. 
Approved the PSPO as
drafted and attached at appendix 1 to the Cabinet
report.

Reasons for the decision

Cabinet considered all of the available
evidence and gave careful consideration to the results of
consultation. Cabinet took the view that the statutory grounds for
a PSPO, that is to say that the activities referred to and carried
within the restricted areas have had a detrimental effect on the
quality of life of those in the locality and that the effect, or
likely effect, of the activities is, or is likely to be, of a
persistent or continuing nature, and is, or is likely to be, such
as to make the activities unreasonable, and justifies each of the
restrictions imposed by the notice.

Alternative options considered

Cabinet carefully considered the alternative
options set out in the report, including concerns expressed about
some of the individual restrictions. It concluded that, in each
case, the statutory tests were satisfied and the restrictions
proposed were proportionate and necessary.