Concerns about begging and antisocial behaviour in Yeovil town centre have intensified since two public space protection orders (PSPOs) expired, according to reports from residents and businesses. Somerset Council says there are currently not enough reports to justify applying for replacement orders, although it is continuing to monitor the situation.
The authority is urging residents, visitors and businesses to report concerns so Somerset Council and Avon and Somerset Police can assess whether further action is needed. Non-urgent crime, including begging and street drinking, can be reported by calling 101 or through the Avon and Somerset Police website. Antisocial behaviour can also be reported through Somerset Council’s antisocial-behaviour reporting page.
What the expired Yeovil orders covered
The issue was raised by Conservative councillor Tom Power at a public meeting on 5 August. He said some constituents felt the town centre had become “less welcoming” when shopping, and warned that this could deter visitors and contribute to shoplifting.
Somerset Council has confirmed that both Yeovil orders have now lapsed. Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, the council’s portfolio holder for communities, environment and climate change, said Avon and Somerset Constabulary had not asked for the orders to be renewed.
The two 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 orders addressed persistent begging and public drinking, with breaches of either potentially resulting in a £100 penalty.
Why replacement orders have not been sought
Somerset Council says it has not received enough reports to support an application for new PSPOs in Yeovil town centre at present. Public reporting is important in deciding whether further action is necessary, and the authority says the position remains under review.
The lapse of the Yeovil begging and street-drinking orders is separate from the council’s work to reinstate dog-fouling PSPOs across Somerset. That separate work is expected to proceed in the autumn.
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 continues to be monitored.