Consultation finds strong support for the introduction of PSPO at Parkhouse Court Hatfield
A consultation carried out by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council (WHBC) has found that there is strong public support for the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) at Parkhouse Court.
The Council recently invited residents, businesses and visitors to share their views on the implementation of a PSPO for Parkhouse Court to help tackle issues of anti-social behaviour in the area. The consultation found that 92% of respondents strongly supported the introduction of a PSPO.
The PSPO will cover Parkhouse Court and the surrounding shops, residential blocks and public spaces. It has been proposed in response to local concerns about alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in public spaces, drug use, aggressive begging and public urination and defecation, all of which are affecting people who live, work and spend time in the area.
The PSPO will give the police and Council officers additional powers to tackle persistent anti-social behaviour with the use of Fixed Penalty Notices.
PSPOs are flexible and help officers respond to local concerns and create a safer, cleaner and more welcoming environment for the whole community.
At it's meeting on 11 August, WHBC’s Cabinet will consider a report on the findings of the consultation and the recommendation that the PSPO is implemented from 24 August for a three-year period.
The report can be found on the Council’s website.
Councillor Jane Quinton, Executive Member for Environment, said:
I am pleased that there is strong support for the introduction of a PSPO at Parkhouse Court. I would like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation and reassure them that as a Council, we are committed to working with the police and our partners to tackle the issues that have been raised. We will continue to work together to improve the area for everyone.
Welwyn Hatfield Chief Inspector Chris Rutter said:
This is positive news for the community as it means officers will have more powers to deal with anti-social behaviour in the area. We are determined to make Parkhouse Court a safer, more pleasant place and we will continue working hard with our local partners to achieve this. Residents can expect to see extra patrols in the area and anyone found breaching the order will face appropriate action.