Issue - meetings

The report invites the Cabinet to determine whether to renew the Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) and restrictions on street drinking in Bath City and Midsomer Norton, following a consultation as required by the legislation.

Cllr Tim Ball, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services, introduced the report, moved his proposal, and made the following points:

·  The current PSPO was put in place in 2021 and will expire on 17^th September 2024.  Under the legislation the order must be reviewed and renewed every three years.  This process involves consultation with local stakeholders and the community.

·  The draft PSPO has been effective in reducing anti-social behaviour and crime caused by drinking in designated areas.  The recent consultation shows that both the public and local stakeholders overwhelmingly support the renewal.

·  The Police believe that the orders provide a useful tool to help to combat anti-social behaviour.

Cllr Alison Born seconded the motion and made the following points:

·  The data from the consultation shows the high level of public concern regarding anti-social behaviour.

·  Although the PSPO is not a “magic bullet” it is a useful tool with which to address this issue.

RESOLVED (Unanimously):

(1)  In the light of the outcome of the consultation, and consideration of the legislative criteria for adopting Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), to make the Bath City Order and Midsomer Norton Order as set out in Appendix 2 and Appendix 3 of the report.

(2)  To request the Head of Legal Services, or an authorised signatory on their behalf, to sign and seal the Bath City Order and the Midsomer Norton Order.

(3)  To request the Head of Corporate Office to undertake publicity relating to any agreed Order.

(4)  To request the Community Safety Partnership to receive regular monitoring reports on the impact of the PSPOs, including equality impacts, and updates on support and treatment available for people who misuse alcohol, including street drinkers.

(5)  To thank those who were involved in the consultation process and publicise the outcomes of the consultation.

(6)  To agree that the decisions for future PSPO Order Renewals for Bath City and Midsomer Norton should be dealt with as single member decisions.