Great Yarmouth’s efforts to strengthen measures against street drinking and antisocial behaviour have hit a setback due to a council administrative error.
The borough council’s plans to expand their Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) powers have been delayed after officials failed to follow correct procedures.
The new rules were set to be finalised this week before the current PSPO expires.
Caroline Whatling, the council’s monitoring officer, confirmed that the PSPO needs to be reviewed to ensure all requirements are met.
The proposed PSPO would have given authorities enhanced powers to tackle public drinking of alcohol across the town and wider district.
It was hoped the extended measures would address a range of antisocial behaviours, including begging for money and cycling on footpaths.
The plans were intended to address growing concerns about antisocial behaviour in Great Yarmouth
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The order would have also prohibited urinating or defecating in public spaces, spitting on the floor, and the abandonment of personal belongings.
The plans had already received approval from cabinet members earlier this month before the procedural error was discovered.
Paul Wells, cabinet member for environment and waste, expressed strong frustration over the error.
“This is frustrating. I was assured it would be coming to this full council meeting so it is extremely disappointing there have been these mistakes,” he said.
Local authorities have reported an increase in complaints related to people drinking alcohol in public spaces throughout the town
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“It is embarrassing to be in this position and it should not have occurred,” Wells added.
The PSPO extension was intended to address growing concerns about antisocial behaviour in Great Yarmouth.
Local authorities have reported an increase in complaints related to people drinking alcohol in public spaces throughout the town.
The measures would have provided police and council officials with additional powers to stop public drinking in designated areas.
Business leaders have highlighted street drinking as a particular concern, describing it as a problem that is “plaguing” the town.
The impact of street drinking and associated antisocial behaviour continues to grow in Great Yarmouth, according to local residents.
Business leaders have warned that these ongoing issues are having a detrimental effect on the “vitality of the town centre”.
The delay in implementing the new PSPO means existing problems will continue until the administrative requirements can be properly met and the order approved.
