Police could get power to seize alcohol from anti-social drinkers in these areas of York

Police could soon get powers to confiscate alcohol from street drinkers in areas of York blighted by anti-social behaviour.

New public space protection orders are proposed for

• York city centre enclosed by the city walls,
• and Union Terrace car park, Union Terrace, Clarence Street and Clarence Gardens.

The orders would give police and council officers discretionary powers to require people to stop drinking in the street, and to confiscate alcohol in these public spaces if they’re behaving anti-socially.

They could also allow groups of three or more people who are behaving anti-socially to be moved on.

If introduced, these new proposed orders would last for up to three years with provision for extensions up to three years.

Chief Inspector Fiona Willey from North Yorkshire Police said:

During the summer months we usually see an increase in anti-social behaviour that is associated with alcohol in York city centre.

We are working closely with the council and partner agencies on problem solving strategies to try and make the city centre a safer and more enjoyable experience for all.

The public space protection order provides us with the opportunity to intervene early by confiscating alcohol and if required moving people on. This then prevents issues from escalating.

A consultation is now underway to see if residents want the orders to be introduced.

Councillor Denise Craghill, executive member for housing and safer communities at City of York Council, said: “For everyone living, working in or visiting our generally very safe and welcoming city centre, we want to minimise alcohol-related crime and nuisance. We can address these unacceptable anti-social challenges using a range of measures which include PSPOs and which are delivered through a multi-agency approach.

“I urge all businesses and residents to please contribute to these new consultations about introducing measures to help officers address alcohol-related crime and nuisance in and near the city centre.”

You can take part in both consultations at the York council website before the closing date of Monday 18 April at 5pm.