Consultation under way to extend anti-social behaviour powers for two more years

Beachgoers flock to Cubbins Green

Residents are being asked for their views on extending the public space protection order (PSPO) in West Kirby for two more years.

The consultation will seek people’s views on the extension of the PSPO, which runs from Red Rocks to Cubbins Green.

The PSPO was put in place in 2020 to address complaints of anti-social behaviour and can see people who breach the rules issued with a £100 fixed penalty notice or a fine of up to £1,000 if they are prosecuted.

The rules are:

  • Groups of four or more are banned from congregating between 10:30pm and 4am (except for keep fit groups, dog walkers, sports teams, families and community groups)
  • Any person or group instructed by an authorised officer to leave the restricted area must leave without delay, by the shortest route and not return for 24 hours
  • No drinking of alcohol or inhaling, injecting or otherwise using or possessing any intoxicating substances or “legal highs” or drug paraphernalia including nitrous oxide canisters within the restricted area
  • No dropping litter or waste other than in the bins provided

Wirral Council said: “This activity has previously had a detrimental effect on the local environment resulting in damage being caused as well as causing nuisance, annoyance and disruption to members of the public, business owners and their employees.

“The proposal is to extend the current order for a further two years, this means it would expire on 3rd September 2024. There is no proposed change to the wording of the Order.”

Details of how to respond to the consultation can be found at https://www.wirral.gov.uk/communities-and-neighbourhoods/anti-social-behaviour/public-spaces-protection-orders

Representations must be received before the consultation period ends on Thursday 1 September 2022.