Police get new powers to tackle drink-fuelled trouble in one part of York

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) deal with problems that spoil the quality of life in your local community – and now there’s one coming into force in the Groves area of York.

A wide range of behaviours can be managed through the restrictions in a PSPO, especially when other targeted methods of dealing with problems haven’t been successful.

A PSPO on its own does not solve anti-social behaviour in open spaces and must be used alongside a range of measures delivered through a multi-agency approach.

A PSPO can last for up to 3 years, after which it must be reviewed.

Following a review a PSPO can be extended for a further 3 years; there’s no limit on the number of times a PSPO can be reviewed and renewed.

This is what City of York council says about PSPOs:

“We make a PSPO when we’re ‘satisfied on reasonable grounds’ that activities carried out (or likely to be carried out), in a public space:

• have a detrimental effect on the quality of life for people in the area
• will be persistent or continuing
• are unreasonable
• justify the restrictions imposed

“We consult with the police to:

• share information about problems in local communities
• review previous actions which addressed problem behaviour
• discuss the practicalities of enforcing PSPOs

“We also consult with community representatives, specific groups and individuals, such as members of local Residents’ Associations, regular users of parks, or those troubled by specific activities, such as busking or street entertainers.

“We make details of each PSPO publicly available before it comes into force, in accordance with regulations published by the Secretary of State.”

All PSPO areas are marked with appropriate signs.

North Yorkshire Police said: “Together with the council we are pleased to announce the granting of a PSPO for the Groves area of York.

“It enables any designated officer to deal with alcohol related ASB and if carries on, to issue a £100 Penalty Notice.”