Consultation opens for Seaham residents to have their say on tougher measures to tackle antisocial behaviour

A consultation has opened for Seaham residents to have their say on tougher measures to tackle antisocial behaviour following a spate of incidents in the town.

Seaham is one of seven County Durham towns included in proposals for Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), following a campaign led by Cllr Fairs.

The option of introducing PSPOs to deal with problem behaviours was raised following a a spate of disorder across the May Bank Holiday weekend which resulted in Durham Constabulary being called to Seaham Marina on Monday May 25.

If introduced, PSPOs would allow council officers, neighbourhood wardens and Durham Constabulary to take more immediate action against anti-social behaviour, including the issuing of Fixed Penalty Notices.

Seaham’s Reform UK councillor Chris Fairs has worked with Durham Constabulary and the council on the proposed measures and zones for the town, including the marina and town centre. He also lobbied cabinet to bring the proposals forward.

The consultation covers PSPOs in Bishop Auckland, Chester-le-Street, Consett, Durham City, Peterlee, Seaham and Stanley. It also covers a separate countywide order on the unnecessary use of face coverings in connection with anti-social behaviour.

With the online consultation having opened yesterday, Cllr Fairs is urging on residents to have their say.

He said: “Residents and businesses in Seaham have told me for a long time that anti-social behaviour affects how safe they feel and how much they want to use our town centre and seafront.

“I’ve pushed hard with the police and the council to get Seaham included, and I’m pleased we’ve got to this stage. But no decisions have been made, and the council needs to hear from local people. Whether you support the proposals, have concerns, or want to see something changed, please take part.”

The order would leave people facing being fined for behaviours including threats of violence, drinking in public areas, littering, group gatherings in certain situations, and using electric bikes and scooters in pedestrian areas.

The council says feedback will help determine whether the measures are necessary, proportionate and fair, with a decision to be published early next year.

You can have your say on the introduction of PSPOs by going to https://letstalkcountydurham.co.uk/en-GB/folders/help-shape-plans-to-tackle-anti-social-behaviour-in-county-durham