Council launches public consultation on measures to tackle alcohol and dog nuisance

Newham consulting

Newham Council is encouraging residents to share their views on a public consultation regarding plans to help reduce alcohol and dog related nuisance in the borough.

The Council is proposing to introduce Public Space Protection Orders, PSPOs, to help control anti-social behavior in public spaces, such as streets and parks.

Led by Newham Council’s Community Safety Service, the PSPOs could curb nuisance alcohol drinking and encourage dog owners to control and clean up after their dogs.

Residents have until November 24 to comment on the proposals, which would give the Council and the police additional powers to tackle anti-social behavior in specific locations and enable fines of up to £1,000 to be issued.

Councillor James Beckles, lead member for crime and community safety said:

“We are determined to make our streets and parks safe and pleasant public spaces for our residents to enjoy. Alcohol and dog related nuisance is intimidating and can cause harassment and litter. That is why we are proposing to clamp down on this behaviour with the introduction of PSPOs.

“I would encourage residents to have their say and feed into this Consultation to help curb anti-social behaviour by 24 November. Together we can make Newham a safer, healthier and happier place to live.”

The PSPOs would allow officers to seize alcohol from nuisance drinkers, and dog owners would need to clean up after their dogs. The public would also be protected as the number of dogs permitted on a lead would be limited to a maximum of 6 dogs per person.

Police officers, police community support officers, and delegated council officers can enforce the Orders. A breach of the Order is a criminal offence and can be dealt with through a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100, or a fine of up to £1,000 on prosecution. 

The Consultation is open for 28 days and will close on 24 November 2021 and feedback can be submitted using the survey available via this link: https://www.newham.gov.uk/community-parks-leisure/public-spaces-protection-order-pspo

Published: 08 Nov 2021