New protection order to tackle anti-social behaviour
Test Valley Borough Council has launched a new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to help tackle anti-social behaviour in Andover and Romsey.
The new order replaces the previous PSPO that had been in place, and provides powers to the police and authorised persons around the consumption and confiscation of alcohol in both town centres and their surrounding areas.
As well as this, the new order, which is now in force, also confers further powers to help control anti-social behaviour in Andover’s town centre. This includes prohibiting behaviour that causes nuisance, harassment or alarm to the public, ensuring that community members can continue to safely enjoy their town centre.
Additional signs have been placed around Andover town centre to ensure visitors and shoppers are aware of the new order. Those who break the PSPO could receive a £100 penalty or may be liable for prosecution. Powers also enable officers to disperse groups who are breaching the rules.
Leader, councillor Phil North, said: “This is a real partnership between the council and Hampshire Constabulary and I’m extremely grateful for everybody’s hard work here. Following consultation, this new order will ensure that visitors, residents and shoppers can relax and enjoy their town, knowing that we are doing everything we can to keep it a safe space.
“We are working hard to rejuvenate our towns and ensuring everyone feels welcome is a big part of these plans. I hope this new order is a clear message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Test Valley.”