Concerns about begging and antisocial behaviour in Yeovil town centre have grown since two public space protection orders (PSPOs) expired, with residents and businesses saying the area feels less welcoming.
Somerset Council says there are currently not enough reports to justify replacing the orders. The authority is monitoring the situation and could reconsider its position if new evidence shows persistent problems are affecting Yeovil.
Why the Yeovil PSPOs expired
The issue was raised by Conservative councillor Tom Power at a public meeting on 5 August. He said some constituents felt less comfortable while shopping in the town centre, and warned that this could deter visitors and contribute to shoplifting.
The two orders had been in place for nearly seven years to tackle persistent begging and public drinking in designated parts of Yeovil town centre. Somerset Council has confirmed that both have lapsed and said Avon and Somerset Constabulary had not asked for them to be renewed.
The PSPOs were introduced in October 2019 by the former South Somerset District Council. They were extended in October 2022 and transferred to Somerset Council when the unitary authority took over in April 2023.
One order prohibited people from approaching others to request money or goods. The other prohibited the consumption or possession of intoxicating liquor when requested by an authorised officer. While the measures were active, breaching either order could potentially lead to a £100 penalty.
Since the expiry, those specific restrictions no longer provide the basis for enforcement in the designated parts of the town centre.
How to report begging and antisocial behaviour
Somerset Council is asking residents, visitors and businesses to report begging and antisocial behaviour. A higher number of reports could help the council and Avon and Somerset Police assess whether further action is needed.
Non-urgent crime, including begging and street drinking, can be reported to Avon and Somerset Police by calling 101 or through the force’s website. Antisocial behaviour can also be reported through Somerset Council’s antisocial-behaviour reporting page.
Councillor Power said enforcement powers alone would not resolve every problem, but argued that councils and police should have effective tools to deal with persistent antisocial behaviour. He said people using Yeovil town centre should feel safe and welcome while the situation is monitored.
The expiry of the begging and street-drinking orders is separate from Somerset Council’s work to reinstate dog-fouling PSPOs across the county, which is expected to proceed in the autumn.