Addressing Alcohol-Related Anti-Social Behaviour in St Helens Town Centre

Article date: 6 November 2024

The council is considering further action to ensure that public spaces are safe and accessible for all, including the potential for a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

Authorised under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, a PSPO allows councils to set conditions on the use of specific locations to address behaviours that negatively impact the community.

When used appropriately and with local support, a PSPO is a positive tool to help prevent anti-social behaviour and could be an effective response to some of the issues local residents and businesses face daily in the town centre.

The council and its partners would be required to gather public feedback to support a PSPO, ensuring that decision-making is well-informed and that action is proportionate.

Cabinet Member for Supporting Neighbourhoods, Councillor Trisha Long, said: "The impact of alcohol-related ASB as a result of street drinking in our town centre is unacceptable. To help us to deal with this issue, it's really important that the public share their views and experiences of this behaviour through our survey, since that feedback will play a crucial role in making sure any action we take reflects the community's needs and perspectives. We are committed to maintaining the safe and welcoming experience of St Helens Town Centre for all who live, work, and visit here."

To give your views, please complete the online survey https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/OQSLRK/

Town centre businesses can also respond through this link, but they will be approached separately for their views.