Begging and antisocial behaviour appear to be increasing in Yeovil town centre following the expiration of two public space protection orders (PSPOs) that had been in place since October 2019. These orders, which prohibited public drinking and begging in key areas, granted police and local authorities powers to intervene when necessary.
Councillor Tom Power, representing Wincanton and Bruton, voiced concerns at a public meeting on 5 August about a perceived decline in the town centre’s atmosphere. He stated that constituents found Yeovil “less welcoming” when shopping, attributing this change partly to the cessation of the PSPOs.
The PSPOs initially introduced by South Somerset District Council targeted offences including approaching individuals to beg along Clarence Street, High Street, and Middle Street, as well as restrictions on consuming alcohol in public and related antisocial conduct. The latter order was expanded in October 2021 to cover a wider area stretching from Yeovil Hospital to Brunswick Street, and from the A30 Queensway to Wyndham Hill.
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Breaching these orders previously incurred a £100 penalty. While both PSPOs were extended in October 2022 and carried over to the newly formed Somerset Council in April 2023, they have since lapsed.
At the Somerset Council executive committee meeting, Councillor Power emphasised feedback from business owners and residents alike indicating a rise in street drinking, begging, and antisocial behaviour. He highlighted concerns that these issues might discourage visitors and potentially contribute to shoplifting incidents. “Many residents from Wincanton and Bruton, and the surrounding villages, consider Yeovil their primary location for shopping and services,” he noted. “However, they are increasingly reporting that the town feels less welcoming than before.”
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, portfolio holder for communities, environment and climate change, confirmed that the PSPOs had not been renewed and that the police had not requested their reinstatement. She also mentioned ongoing plans to reinstate dog fouling PSPOs across Somerset, which are expected to proceed in the autumn following consultation with local councils.
Mrs Smith-Roberts encouraged the public to continue reporting antisocial behaviour and other incidents through official channels, stressing the importance of this information in shaping appropriate responses. “We will keep the situation under review,” she added.
To report incidents such as begging or street drinking, members of the public can contact Avon and Somerset Police via 101 or their website. Antisocial behaviour can also be reported through Somerset Council’s dedicated online platform.
Following the meeting, Councillor Power reiterated the importance of maintaining a safe and welcoming environment in Yeovil town centre. “While enforcement powers alone will not solve all issues, it is vital that councils and police retain the necessary tools to address persistent antisocial behaviour effectively,” he said. He called for a tougher stance on crime and emphasised Yeovil’s vibrant community and commercial strengths, expressing hope that the town remains a desirable place to shop, work, and socialise.