The city wide Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which has been in operation in Wolverhampton since March 2017, gives police powers to stop people from drinking and to surrender alcohol if they are causing, or likely to cause, anti social behaviour.
A report recommending that the order be extended until 2023 is due to go before members of the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet (Resources) Panel on Tuesday (28 July), after a recent consultation found overwhelming support for the measures which have helped bring about a 35% reduction in calls about alcohol related incidents in the city over the last 3 years.
In addition to the city wide prohibitions, an outright ban on street drinking in St Peter's and Park wards, including the city centre, is also being sought. These measures were included in the original order and are being sought once more in response to local concerns and to continue the robust approach which has previously been taken.
The only exceptions would be for licensed premises within these wards which have beer gardens or pavement seating areas, and for temporary public events which have received prior approval from the council's Licensing team.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "The Public Space Protection Order granted in 2017 has generally had a very positive impact on addressing the issue of people drinking in the streets in and around Wolverhampton, and there has been a welcome fall in the number of alcohol related incidents since it was introduced.
"We want police to continue having these powers which they can use on a discretionary basis to tackle anti social behaviour linked to alcohol consumption, and for the authorities to have stronger powers in those areas where most complaints have been received.
“Over 95% of the 500 plus people who took part in the recent consultation were in favour of the ban order remaining in place.
"These proposals also have the full support of police and will help the council meet its priorities of keeping the city clean and safe, by reducing alcohol related litter and tackling anti social behaviour and supporting businesses and encouraging investment by improving the city's image.”
If the extension is approved, the Public Space Protection Order will be reviewed annually to review impact and to consider possible variations if other locations become problematic.
