Crackdown on Anti-Social Behaviour in Plymouth Car Parks Approved

Strategic Insights -

Plymouth City Council is set to implement a three-year public spaces protection order (PSPO) in nine car parks across the city to address rising issues of anti-social behaviour (ASB). The order aims to curb the misuse of car parks, particularly the presence of alcohol and drug use, intimidation, and public disturbance caused by motorcycle racing. The decision follows a consultation where 94% of respondents supported the proposed measures. Under the new order, police officers will have increased powers to address serial perpetrators of ASB.

Key Takeaways:

  • The PSPO will cover nine car parks in Plymouth, including Napier Street, Regent Street, Mayflower East, Theatre Royal, Western Approach, Colin Campbell, Mount Batten Pier, and Castle car parks, as well as Jennycliff.
  • The order aims to address ASB incidents, including alcohol and drug use, intimidation, and public disturbance caused by motorcycle racing.
  • 94% of respondents to the consultation supported the proposed measures, while 32% of people said they felt "very unsafe" using the car parks.
  • 63% of respondents "strongly agreed" that ASB was an issue in the car parks.
  • The consultation noted that people felt unsafe in the car parks, with comments including descriptions of dark and dirty conditions, as well as the presence of discarded drug needles and homeless people sleeping or using the facilities as a bathroom.
  • Plymouth City Council originally intended to cover six car parks with the PSPO but increased the number to nine due to repeated reports of ASB incidents.
  • The PSPO is designed to ensure people do not occupy, loiter, or congregate in the car parks for reasons other than parking a car, motorbike, or moped.

Statistics:

  • 94% of respondents supported the proposed PSPO measures.
  • 32% of people say they feel "very unsafe" using the car parks.
  • 63% of respondents "strongly agreed" that ASB was an issue.
  • 88% of public bodies and organisations, including the Police and Crime Commissioner's office, Devon and Cornwall Police, The Zone, City Centre Company, Plymouth Access to Housing (PATH), and Shekinah, supported the PSPO.
  • 76% said the frequency or severity of ASB within the car parks had worsened over the last 12 months.
  • 22 young people provided mixed views, with some understanding the need for the order and others expressing concern.

Sources:

  • Plymouth City Council
  • Devron and Cornwall Police
  • The Zone
  • City Centre Company
  • Plymouth Access to Housing (PATH)
  • Shekinah
  • Consultation responses from the public