Authority plans to introduce PSPO measures for three car parks in Gloucester
The council proposes measures to tackle anti-social behaviour in city car parks
Gloucester City Council is preparing to introduce a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for three city centre car parks following strong public endorsement during a recent consultation.
Residents, businesses, and stakeholders participated in the consultation, sharing their views on measures aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour and improving safety at Longsmith Street Car Park, Kings Walk Car Park, and Eastgate Street Car Park.
Public Enthusiasm
The consultation revealed strong backing for the PSPO, with 96% of respondents supporting the proposals for Kings Walk and Eastgate Street Car Park, and 89% for Longsmith Street Car Park.
Gloucester City Council owns and operates these central car parks, which are frequented by thousands each week for shopping, services, and leisure. The council is committed to maintaining these sites as safe, welcoming, and accessible areas to boost public confidence and footfall in the city centre.
Proposed Measures
The PSPO aims to reinforce the primary function of the car parks by granting authorised council officers and police the power to instruct individuals to leave if they occupy, loiter, gather, or use the area for non-parking purposes.
These restrictions will cover entire sites, including stairwells, lifts, and corridors, ensuring uniformity across all facilities.
Enforcement Approach
The council employs an Engage, Support, and Enforce strategy when dealing with PSPOs, allowing for advice and behavioural change opportunities before enforcement action.
Breaching a PSPO is a criminal offence and may result in a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £80 or prosecution with fines reaching £1,000.
Councillor Rebecca Trimnell, Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, highlighted: “The strong support for these proposals shows that people want our city centre car parks to be safe, welcoming spaces for everyone. This PSPO will help us tackle anti-social behaviour, improve public confidence, and ensure these facilities continue to support residents, businesses, and visitors coming into Gloucester.”
The proposed PSPO adopts a preventative stance against anti-social behaviour while complementing existing enforcement powers and support services. Public and business cooperation is encouraged through reporting of issues to [email protected] .
Gloucester’s Cabinet is set to review the recommendations on 15th July.