A DATE has been set for the High Court hearing against the controversial “begging ban” in Poole.

The legal challenge against BCP Council’s use of a public space protection order (PSPO) restricting begging will be heard in London on March 26.

It has been brought by Sarah Ward, the chairman of Poole Labour Party, who said the rules brought in by Poole council 2018 unlawfully targeted rough sleepers.

The order prohibits begging and leaving belongings, including bedding and bags, unattended.

“I think people can see how ludicrous the PSPO is,” she said last year. “Introducing a ban like this is never going to be the answer to help rough sleepers and tackle homelessness.

“I had hoped with BCP Council taking over from Poole that we would see this reviewed by now but it has not come together."

The case is being brought forward after thousands of pounds were raised to fund it after legal aid was refused.