Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director of Environment, Highways and Community Services

The Cabinet Member with the Stronger Communities Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) of the Executive Director of Environment Highways and Community Services to present the Renewal of the Town Centre Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) and Introduction of a Borough Wide Public Space Protection Order to Cabinet for approval.

The submitted report explained that the Town Centre PSPO had been in place since 2019 and was last renewed in 2022. The order last for three years, and a review must be undertaken if it is to be renewed. The report states that as part of the renewal process the defined areas of the town centre PSPO covers and some of the wordings of the existing powers are proposed to be amended to improve the effectiveness of the order.

The report highlighted that the proposed new Boroughwide PSPO, which was evidence based had been consulted upon, the additional powers proposed related to begging, the management of side waste and the increasing issues with stray dogs. It was explained that comprehensive training will be provided to Council staff and partners who will use the powers, it was also explained that a application and guidance note had been developed to assist with the proportionate and consistent use of the powers.

Reference was made to whether the stray dogs arrangements within the PSPO covered dogs to be found to be off-lead in restricted areas and whether a fine can be issued.  

RESOLVED - (a) Approve the renewal of a revised Town Centre PSPO as outlined in this report.

(b) Approve the introduction of a Boroughwide PSPO as outlined in this report.

REASON - (a) To provide powers to officers, including Police, PCSOs and Civic Enforcement Officers, to manage various types of anti-social behaviour.

(b)To improve the quality of life of persons visiting and working in the area covered by the PSPO.