Council steps in to tackle anti-social behaviour

Huntingdonshire District Council worked alongside Cambridgeshire Police to introduce the protection order, following a consultation with Ramsey residents and businesses

Concerns about rising anti-social behaviour have prompted the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in a rural town.

The initiative follows a consultation with residents and businesses in Ramsey, Cambridgeshire, and aims to "to improve safety and quality of life", according to Huntingdonshire District Council.

The protection order gives council officers and the police authority to address issues such as vandalism, said Sgt Andy Caruana at the county's police force.

Stephen Ferguson, executive councillor for resident services and corporate behaviour, said: "We're committed to making the town a safe and thriving hub for our communities to enjoy now and for generations to come."

It will cover the town centre, including Great Whyte, Newton Green, New Road, Mews Close and connecting walkways

Huntingdonshire District Council said residents and local businesses had shared their concerns about rising problems in the town.

Officers will work with police "to create a safer and more welcoming environment for residents, visitors and businesses".

The order will cover the town centre and surrounding areas, including all public spaces such as roads, footpaths, bridleways and accessible property frontages.

This includes Great Whyte, Newton Green, New Road, Mews Close and all connected walkways.

Mr Ferguson said its introduction was "a positive step toward tackling the issues Ramsey has been facing".

Sgt Caruana, from the St Ives neighbourhood policing team, said: "With this order in place, we can respond more effectively to the concerns of residents and businesses, working together to create an environment and a space that are enjoyable and accessible for all."

Public Spaces Protection Orders were introduced in 2014.

They are council-led, and rather than targeting specific individuals or properties they focus on the identified problem behaviour in a specific location, according to the Local Government Association.