Skip to main content

Anti-social PSPO goes to consultation

An image of a can on the pavement

Residents are being asked for their views on the renewal of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) focussed on preventing alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.

The PSPO covers the entire city, making it an offence for any person to refuse to stop drinking alcohol or hand over any bottles or cans which are believed to contain alcohol, when required to do so by a police officer or authorised officer who, in their view, believes this would assist in preventing anti-social behaviour, public nuisance or disorder.

The original order was implemented in 2020 and replaced smaller PSPOs currently in place in Stonehouse, the city centre, Devonport, North Hill, Mutley, Tothill Park and Freedom Fields.

Those found in breach of the order are placed on the anti-social behaviour escalation process, a system that ensures not only that enforcement is considered for repeat offenders, but also looks at what support can be offered by services to address any underlying issues.

The current order expires later this year and before a new one can be implemented, a consultation with residents is required.

Councillor Pat Patel, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Culture, Leisure & Sport, said: “Alcohol-related anti-social behaviour does not collate with the friendly, welcoming city that we want Plymouth to be.

"I am pleased that the current PSPO is being reviewed to ensure that it meets the city’s needs."

It is important to clarify that this PSPO is not a blanket alcohol ban. It is entirely focussed on anti-social behaviour, not picnics in the park.

PSPOs are issued by local authorities and give the police and Local Authority additional powers to clamp down on anti-social behaviour.

The consultation will run until Monday 13 March and can be accessed here: https://plymouth-consult.objective.co.uk/kse/folder/1001