How safe are Plymouth city centre car parks?
A consultation's been set up, to tackle anti-social behaviour
Steps are being taken to tackle anti-social behaviour at Plymouth city centre car parks - with motorists being asked for their views.
The City Council say issues have been reported to them about alcohol and drug use, public disturbance and intimidation at the Napier Street, Regent Street, Mayflower East, Theatre Royal, Western Approach and Colin Campbell Court car parks.
They're now planning to secure a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) for the sites.
That's aimed at making sure people don't 'occupy, loiter, or congregate with other people for any other reason other than to park a car, motorbike or moped'.
The PSPO would give police and designated officers the power to move people on if they are causing a nuisance within these car parks and, as part of the preparation work for the order, the Council has to consult with residents and businesses to see what they think.
Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “People should feel safe in our car parks. Full stop. They should be able to come and go from their cars without worry or witnessing unpleasant behaviour.
“This order is another tool we and the police can use to make people feel safer – but we want to know what residents and businesses think about this.”
Steve Hughes, Chief Executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company, which represents the interests of more than 500 businesses, said: “We fully support the Council in its efforts to make our city centre car parks safer and more welcoming. This order will make it easier to take the necessary action.”
To get a PSPO in place, there needs to be evidence that the anti-social behaviour is having a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those living or working nearby and that the behaviour is unreasonable and persistent.
A consultation's being held until Wednesday 7th May to get our thoughts, before the next steps are announced.