BCP Council extends Public Spaces Protection Order to deal with alcohol-related anti-social behaviour

ENFORCEMENT powers to tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in Christchurch have been extended for a further three years.

Following a consultation, a Public Spaces Protection Order was introduced in July 2021 to deal with those creating a nuisance or disorder in communities as a result of alcohol consumption.

That order is due to expire on 30th June, but following further public consultation by BCP Council, it was proposed by officers that this order be extended until 2027.

Locally, areas that will fall under the order are Christchurch Town, Burton and Grange, Mudeford, Stanpit and West Highcliffe, and Tuckton. Christchurch Commons, Highcliffe and Walkford will be exempt because there is insufficient evidence of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.

The PSPO makes it an offence to refuse to cease drinking or surrender alcohol when told to do so by an authorised officer, if the individual is or is likely to cause anti-social behaviour. Those who fail to comply could be issued with fixed penalty notices or face court prosecution.

Discussing the matter at the latest cabinet meeting, portfolio holder for housing and regulatory services Cllr Kieron Wilson said the order will also allow officers to “disperse people from the area”.

“We have seen an increase in alcohol confiscation and PSPO enforcement in recent months, and as such will be taking a more robust approach,” he said.

Cllr Mike Cox, cabinet member for finance, said it was right that any orders that “restrict the public’s rights and freedoms” be looked at carefully.

“But as a nation we have a very difficult relationship with alcohol - although I do feel that’s gradually changing,” he said. “Nevertheless it’s important that we do listen to the consultation with the public in maintaining these orders in selected places.”

The meeting heard that the majority of residents who took part in the consultation, launched earlier this year, were in favour of the PSPO being extended.

“Most respondents also said they considered drinking alcohol to be a problem within the public areas defined by the PSPO map, and felt alcohol-related anti-social behaviour had a negative effect due to intimidating behaviour and littering,” a report to cabinet stated.

“They also believed it had an adverse impact on the local economy, including shops, restaurants and tourism.”

The report outlined the review had also taken into account data from Dorset Police on alcohol-related crime and statistics from community safety patrol officers, along with anecdotal information from other internal council departments, including the parks and open spaces team.

“Following the review of the evidence it was apparent there were still incidents of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in public places in all of the identified areas that are covered by the current PSPO,” said the report.

“It is necessary to continue to tackle and prevent the behaviour from occurring or recurring and allow designated officers to continue to deal with alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.”

Cabinet members voted unanimously to extend the PSPO for a further three years.