PSPO consultation to stop anti-social behaviour and crime

A CITY centre alley notorious for anti social behaviour and alleged drug dealing could soon be closed off by Bradford Council.

The alley at the bottom of Ivegate – the oldest street in Bradford city centre, has developed a reputation in recent years as being one frequented by drug dealers.

The problem, which is unrelated to the nearby Drum Winder pub, has seen police make numerous drug dealing arrests in recent years.

Yesterday Bradford Council began a consultation into plans to issue a Public Spaces Protection Order, under Section 59 of the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act, to close the route by installing gates.

A notice explaining the proposed order says: “Anti-social behaviour and criminal activities have been carried out within the area, facilitated by the public right of way, and that these activities have a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality.

“The effect or likely effect of the activities, without the restriction of the public right of way, is or is likely to be of a persistent and continuing nature,

“The activities are unreasonable and justify the restrictions imposed by this Order.”

The alley – next to the Drum Winder pub and leading to New Market Place, could still be accessed by businesses, emergency services and utility companies.

People have until March 17 to comment on the proposals.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “Bradford District Police have been working closely with Bradford Council, local businesses and residents on long running issues and concerns about anti-social behaviour and crime in the area close to Ivegate in the city centre.

“Bradford City NPT have focused their proactive high visibility patrols in the area, engaged with a number of individuals in the areas causing issues and have made several arrests.

“We have also supported local partners along with Bradford Council and explored a number of long-term solutions including the closure of the alleyway.

“We would welcome any proposal which is submitted and will continue to work in partnership with residents and businesses to reduce anti-social behaviour and crime in Bradford City Centre.”

Last year Bradford Civic Society held an online survey to ask the public what measures could be taken to improve Bradford city centre. Ivegate, Lower Queensgate and New Market Place were highlighted by 10 members of the public as being “in need of improvement.” Most comments acknowledged that the historic area felt unwelcoming, and one respondent commented that the area “stank of weed.”

Si Cunningham, chair of the Society, said: “I’m quite torn on the matter. On one hand, I’m aware of the horrendous drug-dealing problem at the bottom of Ivegate and the grief it causes for businesses and locals in normal times. Clearly drastic action is called for.

“On the other hand, does gating just move the problem on? And why should the majority of decent, hard-working Bradfordians be denied access to a route that’s been used for generations, due to the actions of a few selfish thugs?

“I’d like to know more about access arrangements during business hours, and we should have reassurances that it won’t undermine efforts to improve surrounding streets.”

Bradford BID manager Jonny Noble said: “It’s right to say there are significant concerns among both residents and businesses about anti-social behaviour in this area but we need to think very carefully before closing public rights of way because of the actions of a minority.

“Hopefully the Council will carry out the fullest and widest possible consultation on the proposed PSPO to ensure that everyone affected by this is able to have their say. We would also hope proper consideration is given to the possibility that the anti-social behaviour will simply move to another nearby location and we would welcome the thoughts of both the Council and West Yorkshire Police as to how this will be prevented.

“If, at the end of the consultation, the Council decides to go ahead with the Order, we would like an assurance that any gating introduced will be of very high quality and fully in keeping with the heritage conservation status of this area and that the situation will be continually monitored to ensure the effectiveness of this solution.”

 

Article originally appeared on Telegraph & Argus

The Institute cannot confirm the accuracy of this story or confirm that it presents a balanced view. If you feel this is inaccurate we would welcome your perspective and evidence that this is the case

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