Concerns about begging and antisocial behaviour in Yeovil town centre have intensified after 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 support replacement orders, although its position remains under review.
The council is urging residents, visitors and businesses to report concerns. More evidence could help Somerset Council and Avon and Somerset Police decide whether further action is needed.
Why the Yeovil orders expired
The issue was raised by Conservative councillor Tom Power at a public meeting on 5 August. He said some constituents felt Yeovil town centre had become less welcoming while shopping, and warned that this could deter visitors and contribute to shoplifting.
Somerset Council has confirmed that both Yeovil orders have lapsed. Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, the authority’s portfolio holder for communities, environment and climate change, said Avon and Somerset Constabulary had not asked for the orders to be renewed.
The PSPOs had been in place since October 2019. They were introduced by the former South Somerset District Council and applied to designated areas of Yeovil town centre. The measures 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.
The measures were intended to address persistent begging and public drinking. While they were in force, breaching either order could potentially result in a £100 penalty. Since they have lapsed, those specific restrictions no longer provide the basis for enforcement in the designated areas.
How to report concerns
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 issue, but argued that councils and police should have effective tools to address persistent antisocial behaviour. He said people using Yeovil town centre should feel safe and welcome while the situation is monitored.
Somerset Council’s position could change if new reports establish that persistent problems are affecting the town centre. The lapse of the begging and street-drinking orders is separate from the council’s work to reinstate dog-fouling PSPOs across the county, which is expected to proceed in the autumn.