Begging, nuisance parking and hurling threats banned in West Bromwich town centre

A public space protection order (PSPO) will be brought in to tackle growing concerns that unruly antics are having a 'detrimental impact'.

The three-year order, given the green light by Sandwell Council's cabinet on Wednesday, will see offenders hauled before the courts if they flout its rules.

Councillor Elaine Costigan, cabinet member for public health and protection, said: "West Bromwich town centre continues to experience high levels of alcohol-related, threatening and intimidating behaviour.

"A consultation showed overwhelming support for actions to be taken to address these areas in the town centre and surrounding areas."

The council launched a six-week consultation about plans to bring in the PSPO after a rise in reports of anti-social behaviour over the past two years,

Alcohol-related violence, threatening and intimidating behaviour, begging and nuisance parking were identified as persistent problems in the town centre.

More than 200 residents responded to the consultation, which came to an end in May, with 'very strong support' shown for the new measure.

A report to the cabinet read: "Crime and anti-social behaviour in the town centre impacts negatively on confidence in the town’s leisure, entertainment and shopping offer.

"The PSPO aims to help build confidence that the West Bromwich town centre is a safe place for individuals, families and communities.

"The council and police and other agencies who will work together to implement the PSPO and will work together to decide and intervene as most effective to deal with specific issues as they arise."

Residents are now forbidden to unnecessarily obstruct a road or footpath with their vehicle, threaten others will violence, be verbally abusive or cause anyone harassment, alarm or distress.

Begging is also prohibited by the order, which will cover areas either side of High Street when it comes into force next Wednesday.

An 'implementation group' will oversee the introduction of the order, with members meeting regularly and reporting back to the council.

A fixed penalty notice will be handed to people found breaching the PSPO, forcing them in front of magistrates and at risk of receiving a fine of up to £1,000.

Councillor Laura Rollins, who represents West Bromwich Central, said she welcomed the PSPO and added: "It will go some way, I hope, to tackle the issues in the town."