On the 1 July 2021 a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) will be in place covering the area highlighted yellow on the map below. The order will be in place for 3 years. The PSPO will give authorised local officers and Dorset Police the ability to address alcohol related anti-social behaviour.  

The proposal is not an alcohol ban and it does not make it an offence to drink alcohol in the area covered by the Order. However, it would be an offence to fail to comply with a request from an authorised officer to cease drinking or surrender alcohol in the area covered by the Order, if the individual is or is likely to cause anti-social behaviour. If alcohol is confiscated, it can be disposed of by the person who confiscates it. 

It is an offence to fail to comply with a request by an authorised officer to cease drinking or surrender alcohol in the controlled drinking area. Failure to comply could lead to a fine or prosecution.

Definition of a PSPO

Public spaces protection orders (PSPOs) were brought in under section 59 to 65 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

They specify an area where activities are taking place that are or are likely to be detrimental to the local community's quality of life, and impose conditions or restrictions on people using that area.

They are designed to ensure the law abiding majority can use and enjoy public spaces, safe from antisocial behaviour.

Following public consultation we have introduced a PSPO to deal with alcohol related anti-social behaviour.

For further information please contact asbteam@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.