On the 29 August 2023 (for the next three years) a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) will be in place. Gating an alleyway between Carlton Groove BH12 2DD and 330 Ashley Road BH14 9DF in Poole.

Background to decision

The rights of way team were contacted regarding antisocial behaviour affecting the alleyway. A public consultation was carried out on whether the alleyway should be closed in order to prevent antisocial behaviour.

The respondents for the closure of the alley felt the benefits of increased security in the area outweighs the loss of access. Respondents had seen evidence of drug use, littering and the presence of human waste in the alley. The respondents against the closure did not feel the experience of antisocial behaviour was enough to gate the alleyway and the limited gain derived from gating the alleyway would be outweighed by the inconvenience to pedestrian traffic.

It was decided that the alleyway should be gated to all but those who derive access to the residential properties, cleaning, maintenance, and emergency access. Access rights shall be limited by the installation of two lockable gates which shall remain locked other than to enable the permitted rights described in the Order.

The PSPO allows the alleyway to be gated for three years after which the order needs to be reviewed, and only renewed if necessary.

Anyone who is an interested person can appeal a PSPO. An interested person is someone who lives, works in or regularly visits the area where the order will be affected. That means only people who are directly affected by the PSPO can challenge it. The appeal must be made through an application to the High Court within six weeks of the order being made.

If you have any questions please email us at rightsofway@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.

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.

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