Public Space Protection Order put in place to tackle anti-social behaviour in Crediton

An order to tackle alcohol-related incidents of anti-social behaviour has been introduced in Crediton this week.

On Wednesday 19 August, a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) was introduced in Crediton by Mid Devon District Council, giving police and other authorised officers extra powers to tackle antisocial behaviour and street drinking.

Authorised under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, the order will allow the police and authorised officers to disperse individuals who are causing a nuisance or disorder, and the power to remove alcohol from people who are drinking on the streets before a situation escalates.

With visible signage now in place which highlights behaviours that could be be considered a violation of the order, the PSPO is now enforceable across the town.

Inspector Mark Arthurs, who heads up the neighbourhood policing team in Crediton, said: “The introduction of the Public Space Protection Order will help officers to prevent anti-social behaviour and associated crimes from happening in Crediton.

“We recognise there have been issues impacting our community and have worked with the council to introduce the PSPO, which means we can police the area more effectively and disperse anyone causing problems in the town.”

In the restricted area, people are asked to follow instructions and give up certain items if asked. Prohibitions include:

People found to be in breach of the restrictions can be asked to leave the area and instructed not return for 24 hours.

Officers may also issue a fixed penalty notice of up to £1000 to anyone they believe has committed an offence.

Environment and Enforcement Manager at Mid Devon District Council, Luke Howard said “Over the past 12 to 18 months, we have received numerous reports from residents, businesses and visitors concerning anti-social behaviour directly linked to street drinking in the High Street.

“While the vast majority of people use the town centre responsibly, a small number of individuals have been causing a disproportionate level of nuisance and distress to others.

“We have worked extensively with our Neighbourhood Policing Team to develop an approach that gives officers the appropriate tools to tackle these issues effectively. The introduction of this PSPO is intended to improve the experience of everyone who lives, works and visits the area, while helping businesses to operate in a more welcoming environment.”

Inspector Arthurs added: “We’ve seen a small increase in incidents of anti-social behaviour in Crediton over the last 12 months, but I’m confident that the introduction of the PSPO will allow us to take appropriate action to reduce anti-social behaviour in the area.

“I am pleased to see that action from local officers is already beginning to have an impact on those causing issues in the town, and we will remain committed to keeping people in Crediton safe.”

Councillor Guy Cochran, Mid Devon District Councillor for Crediton Lawrence Ward, and Cabinet Member for Quality of Living, Equalities, & Public Health, said, “Everyone deserves to feel safe where they live, work and visit. This protection order is an important step in tackling the anti-social behaviour affecting our town centre and reflects our commitment to working with Devon & Cornwall Police and the local community to keep Crediton a welcoming place for everyone."

Concerns relating to anti-social behaviour should be reported to Devon & Cornwall Police by speaking with the local neighbourhood team, calling 101 or using the appropriate form on the force website. Always call 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress. 

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