Proposed Public Space Protection Order – Maldon and Burnham on Crouch
This consultation is now closed.
The Council has received complaints of anti-social behaviour in parks and open spaces due to alcohol and psychoactive substance abuse (such as silver nitrous oxide canisters). Areas highlighted as particular concern in Maldon were Promenade Park, Hythe Quay and the adjoining roads spreading up to the High Street. In Burnham-On-Crouch the areas highlighted were Riverside Park, the High Street, and adjoining roads.
In response to these complaints, we are considering implementing a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to ensure that alcohol is consumed sensibly and to stop the use of psychoactive substances in these areas. We are inviting park users, residents, and visitors to have their say on this proposal.
The Public Space Protection Order would prohibit the following activities:
- The consumption of alcohol in a manner that causes, or is likely to cause harassment, alarm, distress nuisance or annoyance to any person
- The possession or consumption of illegal drugs and/or psychoactive substances
The Public Space Protection Order would give particular Council staff (Authorised Officers) the tools and powers to educate and enforce where necessary. The attached maps (Maldon and Burnham on Crouch) outline the exact areas and roads that would be included.
If adopted, the proposed Public Space Protection Order will run for three years. A review will take place after that time.
It would be a criminal offence if a person fails to comply with the Order, unless they have reasonable excuse or consent of the landowner. The usual penalty will be a Fixed Penalty Notice. Where a person is found guilty of the offence in a Magistrates court, they are liable to a fine not exceeding level 3.
Have Your Say
The Council is keen to hear from park users, residents, and visitors to the District so that we understand whether there is agreement for this proposed Public Space Protection Order. Please take a moment to have your say by completing our consultation. This should only take a few moments and letting us know what you think can really help the Council in our decision making.
The consultation will start on Monday 24 May 2021 and finish on Sunday 4 July 2021.
Draft Amended Public Space Protection Order