Have your say on tackling alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in Crawley

The council introduced the PSPO in 2020, prohibiting alcohol related nuisance and anti-social behaviour in a public place, to address impacts that the behaviour of individuals under the influence of alcohol has on the local community and businesses.

The town centre and Memorial Gardens have been impacted by the behaviour of individuals under the influence of alcohol.

Now, the council is asking residents and businesses if they support the Alcohol Consumption PSPO being extended for three years.

The order means that it’s an offence for anyone to refuse to stop drinking alcohol and/or handover any alcohol in their possession when asked to do so without a reasonable excuse when asked to so by the police and authorised council officers.

Councillor Yasmin Khan, Cabinet member for Public Protection at Crawley Borough Council, said: “The current PSPO has been valuable in enabling the police and our Community Wardens to apply fines when appropriate. It makes sense to continue implementing this PSPO to ensure Crawley is a safe place for our residents and visitors to enjoy.”

Chief Inspector Ben Starns, Crawley Police, said: “In addition to our powers under the Licensing Act, a PSPO allows early intervention, potential seizure of alcohol and clear messages to be delivered in terms of anti-social behaviour related to alcohol.

“A renewed PSPO is vital in maintaining a peaceful town centre and tackling disorder and is wholeheartedly supported by Sussex Police.”

For information on the proposed extension of the current PSPO and to complete our online survey before the closing date of Wednesday 7 June visit crawley.gov.uk/consultation