Teenagers banned from Stourbridge car park
Teenagers will be banned from a car park in Stourbridge under new measures to tackle anti-social behaviour.
A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is set to go live in the Ryemarket pay and display car park tomorrow.
It will prohibit under-18's from entering the car park unless driving a vehicle or accompanied by a responsible adult.
The order will be in place for three years following a four week consultation which had a 100 per cent support rate.
A breach of any part of the act can result in a £100 fixed penalty fine. More serious offences can lead to prosecution and, or a fine of up to £1,000.
Shoppers using the car park had complained about gangs of teenagers and skateboarders. Windows were smashed and walls daubed with graffiti.
Councillor Gaye Partridge, cabinet member for community safety, said: "We have listened to the concerns of local residents and businesses in regard to anti-social behaviour and with their backing and support I am pleased to announce the introduction of this Public Space Protection Order in Stourbridge.
"Everyone has the right to be safe and to feel safe and we will be working with the police and will be robustly tackling any breaches of the orders."
The order for Stourbridge prohibits the dealing and use of drugs, legal highs and alcohol, throwing objects from upper levels of the car park, the use of skateboards, graffiti, using paint or pens and damage of the building.
Chief Inspector Simon Inglis from Dudley Police, said: "We have worked closely with our local authority partners throughout the consultation phase and are now pleased that we are able to implement the Public Space Protection Order in order to improve the quality of life of this community.
"Signs will be going up to tell people about the order, which lasts for three years and we hope to see a fall in anti-social behaviour incidents and a reduction in demand for our officers.
"Ultimately though, what we want to achieve is a change in people's behaviour and create a better place for law-abiding residents.
"We'll continue to work with the Dudley Council partners to identify the most appropriate response to breaches of the order." A second PSPO will also be introduced in the Exeter Road and Bowling Green area of Netherton.
