Council tackles antisocial behavior in town centre

A council has launched a public spaces protection order to tackle antisocial behaviour in its town centre.

Croydon council has introduced a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which is now in effect and will cover the town centre and its immediate surrounding areas.

The council is introducing the PSPO following a public consultation earlier this year where residents, businesses and partners showed overwhelming support for the move.

Under the PSPO, anyone caught engaging in antisocial behaviours in the town centre could face a fixed penalty notice or prosecution in the magistrates’ court that could result in a criminal conviction and a fine. 

The PSPO means the police will have the power to issue on-the-spot fines or prosecute offenders who refuse to comply with the order.

Jason Perry, executive mayor for Croydon said: “Our town centre is a busy, vibrant place and it is important that everyone can enjoy it safely and comfortably.

“This new PSPO will support our partnership work with the police to tackle antisocial behaviour, and I’m pleased that it has the support of residents and businesses. 

As mayor I want to restore pride in our town centre and kickstart its regeneration, and making our streets clean, safe and welcoming is an important first step in achieving both.”

The Safer Croydon Partnership will be monitoring the PSPO which is set to run for the next three years and will be reviewing it regularly to ensure that it remains effective in addressing the targeted behaviours. 

The council will also be reviewing the plan after two months as part of a commitment to ensure that there are no adverse effects on the borough’s most vulnerable residents and emergence of hotspot areas.

Pictured top: Croydon town centre (Picture: Claudia Lee)