Alcohol related crime
Discharge of an Alcohol Consumption in a Designated Public Place Order
What are the orders?
In 2007 and 2013 Reigate & Banstead Borough Council implemented two Designated Public Place Orders (DPPO’s) in Merstham and Redhill following complaints regarding public drinking of alcohol and associated antisocial behaviour (ASB). The order allowed Police to require people to stop drinking alcohol in public in certain designated areas. In 2014 the two areas were converted to Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s), following the introduction the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
Why are the orders being discharged?
Both areas have a yearly review and over the past reviews there was no evidence of the powers this order allows being used. There has been a change in culture and behaviours meaning that alcohol consumption in these public spaces is no longer an issue, encouraged by greater public health awareness and improvements to both Redhill and Merstham. Under the terms of the legislation, it would be inappropriate for the Council to continue to have such orders in place if there is little or no evidence for their existence. However, the PSPO for Redhill town centre introduced in 2017 remains in place.
What areas are covered by the orders being removed?
Maps of the areas covered are available to view here: Anti-Social Behaviour section of the ‘Where I Live’ feature.
How was the decision made to remove the order?
Elected members where the orders were in place were briefed in September on the lack of need to use them and the other powers available to be used in their place. It therefore agreed at this meeting to remove both PSPO’s.
What is the consultation about?
Public Notices will be put up in the PSPO areas about their discharge, giving details on how to comment, along with information on our website. The deadline for comments is 24 December. To comment email communitypartnerships@reigate-banstead.gov.uk
What happens if the problem returns?
Community Protection Orders are available to the Council to target the behaviours of individuals who cause problems. These orders mean the person causing the issues is dealt with swiftly, and if they do not change their behaviour they will be considered for prosecution. This also means the neighbourhood does not receive a blanket approach to an individual issue. Should there be a need to impose a full PSPO again, then the matter will receive due consideration, taking into account the opinions of the community and the evidence available to support such an order.