Issue - decisions

The Leader, Councillor Bialyk presented the report.

During debate Members made the following points:

·         there were issues surrounding the lack of police enforcement of the current PSPO;

·         could it be ensured that the Police used the powers, we have afforded them, as it did not always appear that they did, this could be raised at the next Councillor and Police meeting;

·         this was an important package of measures in the City centre to address antisocial behaviour. If it was not extended residents would be wondering why.

·         It was important to address the reasons why crime and antisocial behaviour took place, as well as provide support for people with vulnerabilities;

·         it was not a crime to street drink in the areas covered under the PSPO, it was enforceable if the police made a judgement regarding criminality to request surrender of alcohol due to behaviour displayed;

·         the PSPO formed part of the bigger picture of tackling ASB, and a subgroup of the CSP were looking at how best to make improvements; and

·         a Member had been told by police that the PSPO was one necessary tool, but it must be seen as one part of a bigger picture. Some individuals were not just creating a nuisance but were deeply vulnerable and he asked the Leader if some money from Fixed Penalty Notices might be used in tackling these issues.

Councillor Moore, as co-Leader of the Progressive Group, stated that when she joined as a councillor she was concerned about how this would affect people, especially those who were street-attached. The data provided was very helpful, and the new community safety team had been learning how to take action under the PSPO. There had been positive feedback from businesses and it would take the whole community to deal with this and provide support.

The Leader responded to Members comments making the following points:

• these measures were introduced 6 or 7 years ago and were amended considerably due to concerns from Members;
• public attitude towards ASB had changed since the PSPO was first introduced;
• there was now more intolerance towards ASB;
• nothing was changing but there would be a review in a few years’ time; and
• he would find out how many people were charged but believed that was not the first step taken. 

The Leader moved the recommendation and was seconded by Councillor Wright and following a unanimous vote, were CARRIED.