A Weymouth councillor wants tougher public space protection orders
Jon Orrell doesn't think the current ones are effective enough at tackling alcohol related antisocial behaviour
Weymouth councillor Jon Orrell says concerns have continued that alcohol-related problems and antisocial behaviour in the town are not being tackled effectively.
He is to now meet with portfolio holder Cllr Jill Haynes to see if more can be done.
Cllr Orrell says he is concerned that the Public Spaces Protection Orders for the town are due to expire in mid-August this year and he says he would like to see them improved.
"We have a public space protection order PSPO for alcohol related antisocial behaviour in Weymouth.
"Yet it is not proving consistently effective or enforceable, despite community support officers, that we pay for, to bolster the police.
"The PSPO was due for revision in 2021. This would be an excellent opportunity to make it fit for purpose, in keeping our streets clear in known hotspots, " he said.
Community safety portfolio holder Cllr Jill Haynes told Thursday evening’s Dorset Council that she would meet with Cllr Orrell to discuss his concerns and try and find a way forward.
She says that, for now, the existing orders will be extended while work is carried out on new county-wide orders to cover more areas of concern, including the irresponsible use of portable barbecues.
Said Cllr Haynes said:
"I recognise the problems that the irresponsible consumption of alcohol can cause.
"A small team of Council Community Patrol Officers work closely with Dorset Police to prevent and tackle anti-social behaviour issues arising from alcohol misuse; this can include the seizure of alcohol.
"However, the safety of our officers and Dorset Police is always a consideration and other Police powers are sometimes more effective.
"The Weymouth Anti-Social Behaviour Public Spaces Protection Order covers a number of issues including the consumption of alcohol in specific public places.
"The Order was due to expire on 19 Aug 2021 but has recently been extended. This will allow time for the development, consultation and approval of a new Order covering the whole of Dorset Council area.
"Public Space Protection Orders are complex pieces of work, and we have to provide appropriate consultation before putting them in place.
"This has meant that we are unable to put in a replacement Order before the current Order expires in August 2021."
She says that the council’s licensing officers are working with local retailers to ensure that alcohol is not being sold irresponsibly.