Concerns about begging and antisocial behaviour in Yeovil town centre have intensified after two public space protection orders expired, with residents and businesses saying the area feels less welcoming.

The orders ended after being used for nearly seven years to address persistent begging and public drinking in designated parts of the town centre. Somerset Council says there are currently not enough reports to support replacing them, but the authority is monitoring the situation and could review its position if new evidence shows persistent problems are affecting Yeovil.

Why the Yeovil PSPOs ended

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.

Somerset Council has confirmed that both Yeovil orders have lapsed. Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, the council’s portfolio holder for communities, environment and climate change, said Avon and Somerset Constabulary had not requested their renewal.

The PSPOs were introduced in October 2019 by the former South Somerset District Council and applied to designated areas of Yeovil town centre. 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 second prohibited the consumption or possession of intoxicating liquor when requested by an authorised officer. While the measures were in force, breaching either order could potentially lead to a £100 penalty. Since their expiry, those specific restrictions no longer provide the basis for enforcement in the designated areas.

How to report concerns in Yeovil

Somerset Council is asking residents, visitors and businesses to report begging and antisocial behaviour. A greater number of reports could help the council and Avon and Somerset Police decide 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 using 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 for persistent antisocial behaviour. He said people using Yeovil town centre should feel safe and welcome while the situation is monitored.

The lapse 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.