The Leeds City Centre has implemented a renewed Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to combat anti-social behavior, targeting disruptive actions such as verbal harassment and misuse of psychoactive substances. The PSPO also includes provisions to address issues like cat-calling and pavement obstruction, with the aim of securing public spaces and enhancing safety.
What measures has Leeds taken to address anti-social behaviour in the city centre?
Leeds has renewed the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to address anti-social behaviour, targeting disruptive actions such as verbal harassment and misuse of psychoactive substances. The PSPO aims to secure public spaces and enhance safety, extending to include cat-calling and pavement obstruction, and covers the city centre and select fringe areas.
Renewed Public Spaces Protection Order
Leeds City Centre has witnessed the reinforcement of public safety measures with the renewal of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). This initiative is a response to concerns raised by constituents. The decision comes after a public consultation process where an overwhelming majority endorsed the renewal. This move underscores the community’s resolve to maintain public spaces that are secure and inviting for everyone. The PSPO specifically targets actions that are disruptive to the communal peace. Among them are behaviours such as verbal harassment and the use of psychoactive substances.
The comprehensive nature of the PSPO is evident in its inclusive prohibitions. It has been crafted to deter instances of cat-calling, which disproportionately affect women and girls. Moreover, it addresses issues like the obstruction of pavements. Such actions can impede the flow of pedestrian traffic and create unwelcome barriers for city-goers. Additionally, the PSPO also curtails the unauthorized dispersion of promotional materials and solicitation of charity, practices that can sometimes cross into the realm of nuisance.
The original PSPO, instituted in 2020, set a precedent for maintaining public decorum, particularly concerning alcohol misuse. The renewed order, set to take effect on the 13th of November, extends these measures further. It will cover not only the city centre but also fringe areas encompassing select wards. This expansion illustrates a commitment to upholding civility across a broader spectrum of Leeds’ urban landscape.
Leeds City Council and Safer Leeds Partnership
Leeds City Council, in its collaboration with Safer Leeds, upholds its dedication to the well-being of the city’s inhabitants and visitors. This partnership synergizes the efforts of various stakeholders, including businesses, to collectively address anti-social behaviour. The emphasis is on creating an environment where safety is not confined to the daylight hours but is a round-the-clock priority. Such concerted actions serve to fortify the city centre’s reputation as a place of safety and hospitality.
Councillor Debra Coupar, the executive member for resources with oversight over Safer Leeds, articulated this vision succinctly. She emphasized the council’s commitment to fostering an atmosphere where positive experiences are the norm in Leeds. This PSPO extension, according to Councillor Coupar, is a strategic move to counteract emerging social issues. The council’s resolve is clear: Any form of anti-social behaviour stands in sharp contrast to the values Leeds aspires to uphold.
The initiative is more than a regulatory mechanism—it’s a signal, a statement to the populace that their well-being is paramount. The council’s proactive stance is a deterrent to those who might disregard the mutual respect due in shared spaces. It’s a reassurance to the public that Leeds is not complacent when it comes to safeguarding its communal ethos.
The Scope and Impact of the PSPO
As the PSPO comes into force, its scope is comprehensive, with measures that touch on varied aspects of public life. The prohibitory list is readily available for review, ensuring transparency and awareness. Such clarity is indispensable for fostering a collective sense of responsibility among the citizenry. Knowing what is expected in terms of conduct is the first step toward a harmonious coexistence.
The implications of the PSPO are profound. They extend beyond the immediate effect of curbing unwanted behaviours. The order is a foundational element in a broader strategy to elevate the quality of life in Leeds. With this renewal, the city is asserting its dedication to a future where respect and civility are the cornerstones of community interaction.
In essence, the renewed PSPO is not just a set of rules; it’s a framework for cultivating a civic culture that prizes respect and safety. Such a culture is indispensable for a city that prides itself on being progressive and inclusive. As Leeds looks forward, the PSPO is a vital tool in its pursuit of a city centre that is not only dynamic but also dignified.
For further details on the PSPO, the full list of prohibitions, and the areas it covers, click here.
ENDS
- Leeds City Centre has implemented a renewed Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to combat anti-social behavior including verbal harassment and misuse of psychoactive substances.
- The PSPO also addresses issues like cat-calling and pavement obstruction to enhance safety in public spaces.
- The renewal of the PSPO comes after a public consultation process where an overwhelming majority endorsed the measures.
- The PSPO extends beyond the city centre to include select fringe areas and wards.
- Leeds City Council, in collaboration with Safer Leeds, is dedicated to creating a safe and inviting environment for residents and visitors.