PLANS are taking shape to beef up powers to tackle anti-social behaviour at beaches and open spaces during the peak summer season.

Senior BCP Council members are set to consider the proposals for a new costal and open spaces public space protection order (PSPO).

PSPOs are tools that can be used by Councils to deal with a particular nuisance or problem in a specific area.

They add conditions on the use of that area which apply to everyone and can give Councils and their partners, greater enforcement powers and the ability to issue on the spot fines to those who break the rules.

They are intended to help ensure that the law-abiding majority can use and enjoy public spaces, safe from anti-social behaviour.

A report to the cabinet meeting on December 14 details the behaviours which could be subject to orders under the new PSPO:

  • The playing of music or other noise which is occurring at levels that cause alarm or distress to others and is/or is, likely to be persistent or continuing in nature.
  • Large groups acting in an antisocial manner that is likely to cause alarm or distress to others and is/or is likely to be persistent or continuing in nature
  • Overnight stays in tents and/or sleeping on the beach and open areas without landowners’ permission
  • Lighting or fueling any open fire or barbecue on beaches and open spaces
  • Littering
  • Overnight stays in vehicles, including cars, vans and mobile homes, in car parks and other open spaces

If backed by cabinet members, a 28-day public consultation will take place before final proposals are brought back before councillors for approval.

Councillor Bobbie Dove, portfolio holder for community safety, said: “We appreciate that the vast majority of people who come to enjoy and spend time in our beautiful resort respect our environment and are considerate of others.

"However, post covid, we have seen a change of behaviours which can affect the enjoyment of our residents and visitors to our area, and as a result we are looking to change our response to this. This proposed PSPO will give us more options to deter these behaviours."

Cllr Dove added: “Public consultation is an important part of our considerations, and we are eager to gather the views of our residents before making any further decision on whether a PSPO is implemented and ensure we deliver on the options that they would like to see included within the PSPO.

“If the report is approved, we would have the green light to proceed with a 28 day public consultation, at the end of which we will examine all of the survey responses and feedback.

"We are hoping to ensure that a decision is made of the final introduction of the PSPO before the Easter holidays which is when our tourism season tends to start."