Issue - meetings

The purpose of this report is to consider the responses from the recent consultation process and determine whether to introduce a PSPO for Acomb Green.

Resolved: Option 1 be approved and that a PSPO within Acomb Green be introduced to include:

·          Banning the drinking of alcohol

·          The ability to remove large groups of 3 or more people who are causing anti social behaviour (ASB)

·          Banning under 16’s from the possession of lighters in the play area

·          Setting the amount of any Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) at £100, which would be reduced to £75 if paid within the first 14 days.

Reason: To ensure that the council actively addresses the issue of anti-social behaviour in our communities.

The Executive Leader considered a report which provided him with responses from a recent consultation process and determine whether to introduce a Public Space Protection Order(PSPO). It also requested that he determine whether to introduce a PSPO for Acomb Green.

Officers introduced the report and informed the Executive Leader that in a survey of local residents, there was overwhelming support for a PSPO on Acomb Green. In response to the points raised under Public Participation by the Member of Council Officers stated that;

·        Tolerance of unacceptable behaviour had changed over the years.  A PSPO was a positive response to modify and change behaviour levels.

·        There were no temporary PSPOs. They could have a time limit set on them.

·        Although they  might work on a temporary basis,  Council Officers did not have the power to move on offenders.

The Executive Leader read out a letter from another Member of Council, Councillor Waller, who was in support for granting a PSPO at Acomb Green.

Resolved: That Option 1 be approved and that a PSPO for Acomb Green be introduced to include:

·        Banning the drinking of alcohol

·        The ability to remove large groups of 3 or more people who are causing anti social behaviour (ASB)

·        Banning under 16’s from the possession of lighters in the play area

·        Setting the amount of any Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) at £100, which would be reduced to £75 if paid within the first 14 days.

Reason:     To ensure that the council actively addresses the issue of anti-social behaviour in our communities.