Ban on booze in Worksop town centre?

A crackdown on legal highs, urinating in public and other nuisance behaviour could be implemented in Worksop town centre.
Pictures showing busy Worksop town centre  (Not too many people about due to bad weather). NWGU 12-12-15 Worksop, Bridge place,  (2)Pictures showing busy Worksop town centre  (Not too many people about due to bad weather). NWGU 12-12-15 Worksop, Bridge place,  (2)
Pictures showing busy Worksop town centre (Not too many people about due to bad weather). NWGU 12-12-15 Worksop, Bridge place, (2)

Bassetlaw District Council is considering introducing a Public Spaces Protection Order, which will also place restrictions on congregating yobs, swearing and public drinking which are having a “detrimental effect” on the town centre – and now wants residents to have their say on the idea.

If passed, the new powers would last three years and allow police and the council to issue a fixed penalty notice to anyone found committing prohibited acts.

Councillor Julie Leigh, council cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “We are taking a proactive approach to changes in legislation by consulting on the introduction of this order.

“If implemented, it will allow the council and the police to protect members of the public who use the town centre lawfully, and prevent their enjoyment from being spoilt by anti-social behaviour.

“I encourage everyone to take part in this survey and express their views.”

A PSPO was enforced at Celtic Point in Gateford last year, following a surge in complaints against yobs intimidating residents in that area.

Philip Jackson, chairman of Worksop Business Forum, said this problem had now extended to the town centre and called for “tighter controls” to be imposed.

He said: “Over the past few weeks, more and more complaints of anti-social behaviour in the town centre have been brought to my attention.

“Some people have even told me they are afraid to bring their children into town.

“It can only mean good news for businesses, residents and visitors in Worksop if the PSPO is introduced, making the town centre a more pleasant place to be for all.”

Residents can read a copy of the draft Worksop PSPO, view a map of the area and take part in the consultation on the council’s website at www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/WorksopPSPO

The consultation will close on Friday, June 10, at 5pm.