Soho, Lozells And East Handsworth PSPO consultation

Overview

Birmingham City Council is considering the use of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to combat anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Soho, Lozells and Handsworth Area.

PSPO's are part of the new ASB legislation which was introduced nationally in October 2014.  This order will provide the Police and designated Council Officers, with additional powers across a defined geographical area, to tackle a wide range of anti-social behaviours.  Find out more about PSPO's by visiting http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/12/part/4/chapter/2/crossheading/public-spaces-protection-orders/enacted

The prohibitions within the order have been put into place due to overwhelming reports made to the Police and the Council from residents, businesses and professionals who live, work and travel into Birmingham. The behaviours complained about include urination, defecation, verbal abuse, groups and gangs displaying harassing and intimidating behaviours, begging, substance misuse and graffiti. We propose that the order is in place for 3 years.

The order will require that any young person found to be in breach of the prohibitions will be referred to the YOS prevention team, who will provide appropriate diversionary measures.  Any person found in breach with drug or alcohol issues will be referred to the appropriate Drug and Alcohol rehabilitation services. Any person found in breach for begging will be referred to the Street Intervention Team for housing and benefit support.

This consultation is now live until midnight on the 9^th June and it is your opportunity to put forward any views and opinions.  Attached is a full copy of the proposal order alongside a map outlining the area that will be affected.  We will be hosting various events across the City during the next six weeks, including pop up stands and public meetings and these will be advertised through the Police and Council social media pages and through the press. We will also be consulting with the street community that we have in Birmingham.

When the consultation process is concluded all responses and intelligence will be collated and a decision will be made between the appropriate Council and Police leads, as to whether or not the Order will be made.

If you have any questions then please do not hesitate to contact the Community Safety Team using the below details.  Likewise if you require this consultation in a different language or format please let us know and this can be arrange you.

Community Safety Partnership Manager

07912 455672 – Mohammed Khan

CSP Enquiries cspenquiries@birmingham.gov.uk

What happens next

Your feedback is important to us and will be used to gauge public support for this approach to tackle the issues set out in the attached document at a local level. The information you provide will also be used to help shape the look and feel of the final order.