Decision

Based upon an analysis of data relating to overall antisocial behaviour and alcohol related antisocial behaviour, alongside results of consultation with residents and key stakeholders, the decision is to renew the order for a further three years, expiring on 18 October 2026.

Reasons for the decision

A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), addressing the issue of responsible drinking in public places has been in place since 2017 and is an order made by the Council under the Antisocial Behaviour Crime and Policing Ac t 2014. Before this, a similar order, a Designated Public Place Order (DPPO) was in place from 2011. A PSPO is designed to designate an area and issue conditions relating to behaviour that detrimentally impacts the quality of life of people in the locality and can remain in place for a maximum of three years. The current order expires on the 18th of October 2023 and a decision was necessary regarding its future. The decision can be, to extend it for another three years, amend and then renew for another three years or discharge the order. There must be consultation with police, elected members and local representatives in addition to a public consultation. There was overall support for renewal for three more years.
A public consultation was held online (242 respondents) and in person (13 respondents) between 6 August and 3 September 2023. 69.7% of those asked in the online survey stated that they felt that misuse of alcohol in public places caused nuisance and annoyance and 60% of them supported extending the order for three years. Of the respondents to the face to face survey, 92.3% felt that alcohol misuse caused nuisance and annoyance and 100% supported the renewal.
ASB overall has reduced in this borough which is in line with a London trend but remains too high and the extension of this power being available to police and council officers will support addressing this. Officers will continue to be able to require a person causing or likely to cause antisocial behaviour to stop drinking and to surrender any alcohol. Refusal to do so being an offence for which a fine of £100 pounds can be levied by a fixed penalty notice.

Alternative options considered

- Amend and renew the order or,
- Discharge the order.