New public spaces order to be enforced in Preston city centre

Wednesday, 30 October 2024 13:02

By Central Radio News

Starting in December, Preston City Council will introduce a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in partnership with Preston Police to address crime and anti-social behaviour in key areas of the city centre.

The city centre PSPO is to be introduced following public consultation earlier in the year. The Council has also consulted other local organisations. The area to be included in the order is within the City Centre Ward and the anti-social behaviour to be challenged will be that which is persistent, unreasonable and has a detrimental effect on other people using those public spaces.

Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet Member for environment and community safety at Preston City Council, said: “As we approach the festive season, it’s vital that people in the city centre feel safe to enjoy themselves.

‘’By collaborating with Preston Police, the Council will be able to reduce anti-social behaviour and enhance public safety.

‘’This will be the first order of its kind to be introduced into Preston and this new enforcement initiative demonstrates our joint commitment to keeping the city centre an attractive place to visit.”

Prior to the PSPO’s introduction, authorised officers of the Council will advise residents and visitors about the new measures and the implications of breaching the order.

When the order commences, the Police and Council officers will work jointly to give official warnings for breaches of the order and to report serious or repeat violations for enforcement, including £100 fixed penalty fines.

Dave Byrne, Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for Preston, said: “Anti-social behaviour can have a profound impact on people’s lives. As part of Operation Centurion, our force response to tackling anti-social behaviour, we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that those who live in, work and visit Preston can feel safe and enjoy their time here.”