In an effort to tackle street drinking and anti-social behaviour, the council is asking Bedfordians for their views on the potential extension of the current Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in the town centre.
The current PSPO was introduced in December 2020 but the issue still persists in parts of the town centre and remains a concern for residents, business owners and visitors.
A 2022 consultation by the Community Safety Partnership revealed high levels of concern about the negative impacts of alcohol in the town centre.
The current PSPO is set to expire in December 2023, so the Council is asking for residents’ views on whether it should be extended for a further three years.
Cllr Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “We take the concerns of our residents seriously, and the PSPO has been an essential tool in managing anti-social behaviour related to alcohol in our town centre.
“We value your input in shaping the future of these spaces and are really keen to hear your views, which will play a crucial role in our decision-making process.”
PSPOs were introduced under the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 to address specific nuisances or issues detrimental to local communities by imposing conditions on the use of certain areas.
The aim is to enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
The consultation period will run from Tuesday, 12 September 2023, and all responses must reach the Council by Thursday, 12 October 2023. The feedback received will be compiled into a comprehensive report, which will be presented to the Council’s Executive Committee on Wednesday 22 November 2023.
To have your say, can visit bedford.gov.uk/PSPO.
Paper copies of the survey are also available for collection from Bedford Central Library.
