Drug dealing and loud music prompt plans for Southsea parks restrictions

Alcohol-related disorder, drug dealing, amplified music and anti-social behaviour have been cited as reasons for proposed restrictions at two Southsea parks.

Portsmouth City Council is considering introducing a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) at Wimbledon Park and Waverley Gardens following a consultation that received 418 responses.

The proposals aim to tackle behaviour affecting residents’ ability to use and enjoy the parks, with the council required to gather and consider public feedback before making a final decision.

Evidence previously identified repeated problems including alcohol-related disorder, loud or amplified music, public urination and defecation, litter, intimidation and wider anti-social behaviour.

The council said these issues had contributed to fear, avoidance and a reduced quality of life for people living nearby.

Consultation results showed strong overall support for the proposed restrictions, with between 75 per cent and 96 per cent of respondents agreeing with each measure.

Some 91 per cent of respondents were local residents, and 83 per cent of those lived within 500 metres of either park.

Measures relating to alcohol consumption and open alcohol containers received majority support, although they attracted the highest levels of disagreement. Between 73 and 79 respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed, depending on the park and measure.

Experience of, or witnessing, alcohol consumption was reported by 57 per cent of respondents for Wimbledon Park and 75 per cent for Waverley Gardens.

Public urination and defecation were also highlighted as concerns. Awareness of the issue was reported by 31 per cent of respondents for Wimbledon Park and 41 per cent for Waverley Gardens, while 24 per cent and 32 per cent respectively said they had experienced or witnessed it.

Drug-related activity was the most frequently identified additional form of anti-social behaviour. Among respondents who identified other anti-social behaviour, 70 per cent in each park referred to drug-related activity, including use, dealing, paraphernalia and needles.

Loud music or sound played through speakers was also reported as an issue, with awareness levels of 28 per cent at Wimbledon Park and 39 per cent at Waverley Gardens.

Under the proposed PSPO, alcohol consumption and open alcohol containers would be prohibited, alongside amplified sound and public urination or defecation.

Portsmouth City Council’s cabinet is due to decide whether to approve the proposed order on October 27.