Issue details

Power to Confiscate Alcohol within the Public Space Protection Order Zone

Bracknell Forest has a Designated Public Places Order (DPPO) as per the map at https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/sites/default/files/documents/town-centre-map-for-designated-public-place-order.pdf. This order was put in place to control anti-social behaviour linked to street drinking in Jubilee Gardens and other open areas.

DPPOs have been replaced by Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) following the enactment of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and Bracknell Forest’s DPPO became a PSPO on 20 October 2017.

However, with the passing of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, responsibility for enforcing PSPOs transferred from police forces to local authorities. The power of a constable under Section 12 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 to require a person consuming alcohol in a designated place to surrender any alcohol was repealed by the 2014 Act. However, a local authority is able to allow ‘authorised persons’ to seize alcohol.

Westgrove is employed by The Lexicon to provide a cleaning and security service in the new town centre. Employees of Westgrove who carry out this service receive training and are accredited by Thames Valley Police’s Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS). However, the power to confiscate alcohol is no longer available under CSAS so cannot be granted by Thames Valley Police.

Authorisation is now sought for this power to be passed by Bracknell Forest Council to Westgrove staff who are awaiting accreditation under CSAS.

Decision type: Key

Reason Key: Affects more than 1 ward;

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Wards affected: Priestwood & Garth; Wildridings & Central;

Notice of proposed decision first published: 02/01/2018

Decision due: 28 Feb 2018 by Executive Member for Culture, Resources and Public Protection

Lead member: Executive Member for Culture, Corporate Services and Public Protection

Lead director: Director of Adult Social Care, Health & Housing

Contact: Alison O'Meara, Head of Community Safety Email: alison.o'meara@bracknell-forest.gov.uk Tel: 01344 352286.

Consultation process

In writing.

Consultees

Borough Solicitor and Chairman of the Community Safety Partnership

Making Representations: In writing to the Director of Adult Social Care, Health & Housing

Financial Impact: No financial implications.

Decisions

Documents

 

Contact Information

Democratic services

Email: committee@bracknell-forest.gov.uk