Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) for Night Fishing and Camping (Miscellaneous Provisions).

Overview

What is a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO)? 

A PSPO is an order that is enforceable under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. They are used to protect the public from behaviour that is having, or is likely to have, a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality and is, or is likely to be, persistent and unreasonable. 

What is the Purpose of this Consultation? 

The purpose of the consultation is to seek any views regarding a proposal to extend the existing order, for three years, the miscellaneous provisions for no night fishing or camping at Taunton Road and Brownes Pond in the Somerset North area.

The Public Spaces Protection Order for miscellaneous provisions (no night fishing or camping) in the Somerset North area (former Sedgemoor District Council Area) is due for renewal in December 2023.

 Your views are invited as to whether the provisions should to be extended, additional restrictions applied or restrictions lifted/amended for 3 years (the maximum permitted) timeframe.

 What does the PSPO require or restrict?

If you need a paper copy please call the Council on 0300 123 2224 and we will arrange for one to be posted to you. You can also see a copy of the draft PSPO at the following locations: 

• Bridgwater House reception, King Square, Bridgwater, TA6 3AR.
• Bridgwater Library, Binford Place, Bridgwater TA6 3LF. 

In broad terms, the effect of this PSPO is:

No Night Fishing or Camping – Requires any person fishing or camping in the designated areas between sunset – sunrise to leave immediately when directed to do so by an authorised person. This is to reduce noise and anti-social behaviour impacts on local residents.

There are general defences of having ‘reasonable excuse’ and/or having the permission of the owner / occupier of the land where applicable.