Gloucester Proposes PSPO to Combat Loitering in City Centre Car Parks

Gloucester city officials are looking to enhance safety and reduce anti-social behaviour in three key city centre car parks: Longsmith Street, King’s Walk, and Eastgate. The council plans to introduce a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) empowering authorised officers and the police to direct anyone loitering, congregating, or using the car parks improperly to leave the premises.

This order will cover all areas within these car parks, including stairwells, lifts, and corridors, ensuring a uniform approach throughout each facility. Violating the PSPO is a criminal offence, potentially resulting in fines up to £80 through fixed penalty notices or up to £1,000 following prosecution, which may also involve a court appearance.

The move, supported by overwhelming public approval, follows a recent consultation where 96% of respondents backed the PSPO for King’s Walk and Eastgate, and 89% supported it for Longsmith Street. The council intends to reinforce the principal function of these car parks as safe parking spaces for vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, and mopeds.

Rebecca Trimnell, cabinet member for community engagement, emphasised the community’s desire for secure and welcoming parking facilities. “This PSPO will help us tackle anti-social behaviour, boost public confidence, and ensure these car parks continue to serve residents, businesses, and visitors effectively,” she said.

The council and police will adopt an “engage, support, and enforce” strategy—first advising individuals breaching the PSPO and offering them the chance to amend their behaviour before taking enforcement action if necessary. This proactive approach aims to prevent anti-social behaviour while complementing existing laws and support services.

Residents and local businesses are encouraged to report any PSPO violations at [email protected]. The council’s cabinet will consider approving the PSPO proposal at their meeting on July 15.