Measures to tackle rowdy behaviour move step closer

A clampdown on antisocial behaviour in Woking town centre is set to come into force.

A public space protection order (PSPO) will go before Woking Borough Council after its executive approved the measure, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The PSPO would give police increased powers in tackling street drinking, intimidating and threatening behaviour, and people using face coverings to cause fear.

Councillor Steve Greentree said: "[The order] supports local businesses, residents and visitors who come to our town centre to enjoy themselves and it's an important step to move forward with."

If passed by the council, the order could be in place for three years, and comes after a consultation into crime and anti-social behaviour found 80% of the 362 respondents backed the new measures.

Surrey Police said in a report submitted to the local authority that there had been numerous reports of problems in Woking town centre, primarily caused by a "heavily intoxicated" group drinking alcohol and shoplifting in the late afternoons and early evenings.

Potential customers were put off going into the town centre because of the gatherings, the report said.

Councillor Ian Johnson said a similar order placed in Mount Hermon had been successful in reducing problems there.

Johnson said: "It's a good idea to have this as an extra tool for the police.

"If this makes people in the town feel safer, then that's a very good thing."

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