Final Opportunity for Wolverhampton Residents to Influence Police Powers at Bentley Bridge
Time is rapidly expiring for residents of Wolverhampton to provide input on proposals aimed at addressing anti-social behaviour at the well-frequented Bentley Bridge retail and leisure park. A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is under consideration for implementation in and around the area, responding to a notable rise in disruptive activities, primarily involving groups of young people.
Enhanced Police Authority to Manage Nuisance Groups
If enacted, the PSPO would empower police officers to request groups of three or more individuals to vacate the premises if there is reasonable belief that they are causing or are likely to cause a nuisance. Additionally, individuals could be asked to remove face coverings unless they have legitimate grounds for wearing them, such as medical necessities or religious observances.
The City of Wolverhampton Council has emphasised that this measure is specifically tailored to target those responsible for anti-social conduct, ensuring it does not impact lawful gatherings for shopping or leisure purposes. The council also clarified that the proposed regulations would not discriminate against those wearing face coverings for valid reasons.
Proven Effectiveness from City Centre Implementation
Council officials highlighted the success of a similar PSPO introduced in Wolverhampton city centre last year, which contributed to a 16 percent reduction in recorded crime within that area. Notably, robberies decreased by an impressive 50 percent, demonstrating the potential effectiveness of such orders in enhancing public safety.
Urgent Consultation Deadline Approaches
A public consultation is currently underway, with the deadline set for 11:59 PM on Thursday, February 26. Residents, businesses, and visitors are encouraged to share their perspectives on the proposals before this cutoff.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Wolverhampton's cabinet member for health, wellbeing, and community, stated: "Bentley Bridge is an incredibly popular retail and leisure venue, and we want to ensure it remains a welcoming and safe place for everyone to visit. Public Spaces Protection Orders are designed to ensure the law-abiding majority can continue to use and enjoy public spaces, safe from the threat of anti-social behaviour or nuisance."
He added: "Data shows an increase in incidents of anti-social behaviour in the area over recent years, and, where a group of people or an individual is likely to cause, or is causing, anti-social behaviour, the PSPO would give police the authority to ask them to leave the area and remove any face coverings being purposefully used to disguise their identity. We’ve seen the impact that the city centre PSPO has had, and we want to hear what residents, businesses and visitors to Bentley Bridge think of these proposals – so please have your say by Thursday’s deadline."
If approved, the PSPO will encompass the entirety of the Bentley Bridge retail and leisure park, aiming to foster a secure environment for all patrons.
