Anti-begging order for Fareham to be debated by council

CONTROVERSIAL proposals to introduce an anti-begging order in Fareham are set to be raised tonight at a meeting.

Fareham Borough Council’s executive is set to discuss plans for a public space protection order (PSPO) in the town centre.

The order would give the local authority additional powers to punish anti-social behaviour, begging, street drinking, taking of drugs and rough sleeping in public areas.

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Fareham Liberal Democrat councillor Shaun Cunningham previously said that the plans were ‘like taking a sledgehammer to cracking a nut’.

The order would mean that a police officer can issue a person breaking the order with a fine up to £100 and if a person continues to ignore it, it could lead to a fine of £1,000 upon a court conviction.

A report published ahead of the meeting said: ‘Fareham is a safe place to live, work and visit.

‘Begging, street drinking, taking drugs and rough sleeping are becoming increasingly prevalent in Fareham town centre and having a detrimental impact on the quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors.’

The meeting takes place in the Collingwood Room of the Civic Offices at 6pm.