Decision

That the Director of Corporate Services agrees to the implementation of a PSPO in Birkenhead Town Centre for a period of three years.

Reasons for the decision

Wirral Council, in partnership with relevant agencies, has been seeking to address ongoing and persistent anti-social behaviour in Birkenhead Town Centre. A range of short-term tools and powers have been utilised; however, issues continue to arise, particularly during evenings, weekends and after school hours.
This behaviour includes large groups gathering and engaging in anti-social and criminal activity. Within these groups, some individuals wear face coverings, hindering identification, and misuse pushbikes, e-bikes and scooters. These behaviours cause intimidation and distress to local residents, members of the public and local businesses.
The Community Safety Service, supported by Merseyside Police, proposes the implementation of a tailored Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). This will prohibit specific activities and provide Wirral Council and its partners with wider powers to address the behaviour on a long-term basis, enabling residents and visitors to enjoy the area and its amenities without fear or disturbance.
Evidence obtained from the Council’s records, along with that of relevant partners, demonstrates that the anti-social behaviour is having a detrimental impact on the community and requires a sustained response.
It is therefore considered necessary and proportionate to introduce a targeted PSPO with defined prohibitions, which will support the Council’s commitment to improving community safety and reducing anti-social behaviour.
In accordance with the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, a public consultation has been undertaken. This included an online survey, direct correspondence with stakeholders, and in-person drop-in sessions. A total of 23 responses were received, of which 91.3% were in favour of the proposed PSPO, with the remaining 8.7% indicating that they were unsure. Additional comments received largely related to matters already addressed by existing legislation and enforcement powers available to the Police.
The proposed PSPO is supported by partner agencies, including Merseyside Police, Magenta Living, local Ward Councillors, and the Police and Crime Commissioner.
Accordingly, having regard to the evidence and consultation outcomes, the Council considers that the making of the PSPO is justified, necessary and proportionate in all the circumstances.

Alternative options considered

Do Nothing/Continue short-term interventions
Pros:
- Allows time for situations to de-escalate naturally and may prevent unnecessary conflict.
- We continue to take short-term action against identified perpetrators involved in ASB.
Cons:
- Residents may feel unsafe or unsupported, leading to a loss of trust in Local Authority.
- Perceived lack of commitment to public safety.
- Perceived inaction can damage relationships between the Council, Police, and the wider community.
- Increased demand on emergency services due to unresolved or escalating incidents.
- Reduces the enforcement powers available to tackle ASB.
- Reactive rather than preventative, failing to address underlying causes.
- Multiple enforcement actions against individuals can be resource intensive and difficult to sustain.
- Difficult to identify perpetrators which impacts on ability to take targeted action.
- Targeted action has not had the desired effect over the last 12 months, with numerous approaches being attempted but having no real impact on the behaviour.