Council consults on plans to tackle anti-social drinking in Romford
Today (Tuesday 15 August), Havering Council launches a 21-day consultation on plans that would crack down on anti-social drinking in Romford as current powers to deal with this will end in October.
Earlier this year, the Council carried out a month long consultation on plans for a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in Romford Town Centre. Feedback received from this consultation indicated strong support for control of drugs, littering, spitting and street fundraising, which will be dealt with by using existing legislation. Controls on busking and begging were not backed as strongly, therefore this condition will not proceed in this order but will be revisited at a later date.
Following this response, the Council has refined its proposals for the PSPO, which will now focus on alcohol related anti-social behaviour. The Council is seeking the views of businesses and the public on its new plans.
The proposals would ban people from consuming or carrying open containers of alcohol except in licensed premises. Those breaking the rules could be given a Fixed Penalty Notice. The PSPO will not affect the possession or consumption of alcohol in clubs, pubs and bars and other places licensed to serve alcohol, and will not affect the purchase of alcohol from off-licences within the Town Centre for consumption elsewhere. It only applies to public places.
In this consultation, Havering Council is inviting everyone’s views as part of its 21-day consultation. The consultation will run from Tuesday 15 August to Tuesday 5 September. You can get in touch via:
- An online survey at www.havering.gov.uk/consultations
- Write to: Community Safety Team, Havering Council, The Flat, Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BB
- Telephone number for visually impaired residents on 01708 726 060
Councillor Osman Dervish, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety, said:
“Our current powers to deal with alcohol related problems in the town centre are due to lapse in October. These new plans will help ensure we have powers to crack down on alcohol related anti-social behaviour in the town centre, so it’s a safe and enjoyable space for everyone.
“This consultation is a chance for businesses and residents to have their say on our new plans to tackle anti-social behaviour in Romford. If you’ve got something to say, make sure you fill in this survey.”