A Public Space Protection Order, giving Wirral council extra powers, could be extended by a further two years.
PSPOs in New Brighton and West Kirby were put in place following complaints of anti-social behaviour involving intimidating groups, littering, urinating, unauthorised vehicles on grassed areas and alcohol-related disorder. Having caused issues for members of the public, businesses and the local environment, action was taken.
The orders are due to end next month and residents are now being asked for their views on extending the two current public space protection orders (PSPOs). This means it would expire on September 3, 2024. instead of September 3, 2022.
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In West Kirby, the order applies to the areas known as West Kirby Beach/Caldy Beach and the grassed area Cubbins Green. This was made after over 120 reports were made to Merseyside Police relating to anti-social behaviour in and around the area.
In New Brighton, the order applies to the areas known as New Brighton Dips. It came after over 110 reports to police relating to anti-social behaviour.
How will it be enforced?
A PSPO is a provision created by the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing act 2014. It is intended to deal with particular nuisances or problems in a defined area that are considered to be detrimental to the local community’s quality of life.
It can do this by imposing conditions on the use of that area which will apply to everyone so that the majority of people can enjoy the public space and will be enforced by authorised council officers, police community support officers and police officers.
The Council has the power to implement, extend or vary PSPOs with the purpose of stopping individuals or groups committing anti-social behaviour in public spaces. This means it will be an offence to, without reasonable excuse, do anything that the person is prohibited from doing by a Public Spaces Protection Order.
A fine of up to £1,000 could be issued or a fixed penalty notice of £100. Details on the consultation can be found by clicking here. Responses to this consultation should be made in writing by email to neighbour.nuisance@wirral.gov.uk or to the following address: Wirral Council Anti-Social Behaviour Team, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wirral, CH44 8ED.
Any representations must be received before the consultation period ends on Thursday, September 1, 2022.
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