News / St Andrew's Park
Proposals to impose drinking ban in St Andrew’s Park
Drinking alcohol and group gatherings of more than three people after 9pm could be banned in St Andrew’s Park under new proposals being considered.
Bristol City Council has launched a consultation to garner opinion on the implementation of a public space protection order (PSPO) that would cover the entire park.
People are asked to give feedback on a number of restrictions that could be imposed within the popular green space that’s situated among residential streets.
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They include the prohibition of anyone “causing unreasonable levels of noise”, group gatherings of more than three people between 9pm and 8am and a ban on the consumption of alcohol or possession of any opened or unsealed bottles, cans or containers of booze.
The PSPO would cover the entirety of St Andrew’s Park – image from Bristol City Council
Members of the public have an opportunity to give their views on each of the proposed prohibitions.
The consultation states PSPOs are “an area-based order intended to deal with a particular nuisance or problem that is detrimental to an area’s use. They are intended to ensure that the area can be enjoyed by all, safe from anti-social behaviour”.
It asks people if they have been affected by behaviour within the Victorian park and whether they believe a PSPO would make a difference.
Joe Rayment, who ran as a Labour councillor candidate in the Bishopston & Ashley Down ward, argues the proposed measures are unnecessary and should be thrown out.
“Restrictions like this are justified on the grounds of ‘anti-social behaviour’, but having some cans in the park or being with upwards of two friends are distinctly social behaviours,2 Joe tells Bristol24/7.
“The things that proponents of PSPOs say they will prevent are already enforceable by the police (noise disturbance, littering, public urination etc), and the police certainly do not need more powers.
“This proposed policy is simply trying to appease certain members of the community who want to banish those they view as undesirable. It should be thrown out immediately.”
The consultation adds that PSPOs enable police officers or designated council representatives to enforce the imposed conditions. Failure to comply could result in a fixed penalty or further action.
The consultation closes on July 14. Have your say via www.bristol.citizenspace.com/children-families-services/st-andrews-park-pspo/
Main photo by Ellie Pipe
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