Agenda item

The Cabinet considered a report of the Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Climate Change which provided the outcome of the consultation exercise which was carried out in relation to a potentially new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) for begging, urinating, and defecating in public and the use of psychoactive substances in Durham City. The report also made recommendations in respect of the introduction of a PSPO in Durham City (for copy of report, see file of minutes).

Councillor J Shuttleworth, Cabinet Member for Rural Communities and Highways moved the recommendations in the report and commented that the consultation had provided overwhelmingly strong evidence for the introduction of a PSPO. The PSPO was supported by residents, the police, the parish council and city stakeholders. A PSPO would not be solution to all issues in the city but would be an additional “tool in the box” to control behaviours and improve the lives of residents and visitors to the city.

Councillor M Wilkes, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods and Climate Change seconded the recommendations in the report and spoke of the importance of doing everything within the powers at the Council’s disposal. Having heard directly from residents there was no doubt the actions outlined in the report were appropriate.

Councillor Wilkes also referenced that the ongoing work for those genuinely in need would continue by the excellent homelessness support the Council offered.

Resolved:

That the recommendations in the report be approved.