Powers that enable City of Doncaster Council and South Yorkshire Police to tackle persistent forms of antisocial behaviour are set to be extended, with their renewal being considered by Cabinet next week.
Doncaster city centre is currently covered by a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), first introduced in 2017 and renewed every three years since. The order places restrictions on a range of activities, including antisocial begging, antisocial loitering, drinking alcohol in public areas, the taking of drugs and other banned substances, urinating or defecating in public, tampering with parking equipment, and returning to the city centre within 24 hours of being directed to leave by an authorised officer. Anyone who breaches the PSPO may be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice of £100, or could face prosecution, which may result in a fine of up to £1,000.
In a recent public consultation, residents and businesses gave their views on what should be included in the PSPO going forward, with the vast majority supporting the order’s extension and the preservation of all seven existing prohibitions. Respondents were also in favour of introducing a proposed eighth restriction addressing the antisocial use of amplified equipment in the city centre. The new restriction would apply only where such activity is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress, and would not apply to authorised events, approved street entertainment or other authorised announcements.
Proactive results
Councillor Gemma Cobby, cabinet member for regulation and enforcement, planning and safer communities, said: “In recent years, the PSPO has enabled us to address antisocial behaviour, making our city centre a safer and more attractive place. It has delivered some proactive results, with our officers enforcing against 1,333 breaches of the order since November 2023 alone.”
She added: “We are making progress, however there is more work to be done. Our teams will continue to work together with the police to address the issues that matter most to the people of Doncaster, including antisocial behaviour and safety concerns. As we now head into what is sure to be a fantastic summer for the city centre, we remain committed to keeping it safe, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone. With a packed calendar of events and activities taking place over the coming weeks, I would encourage residents and visitors alike to come into the city centre and make the most of all that it has to offer.”
The PSPO renewal will be considered by Cabinet on Wednesday 12 August.
