Five activities which damage the quality of life in York city centre are set to be banned.
It comes as police press to increase their powers to tackle troublemakers.
They are asking City of York Council to extend the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in the city centre.
Under the extension, the following behaviours would be banned:
- Intimidation and Coercion : Pressuring or deliberately intimidating someone into giving money.
- Persisting in Requests : Continuing to ask for money, for food, or pressure others to voluntarily do something, after an initial refusal.
- Pestering or Pursuing : Following, nagging or blocking the path of an individual.
- Invasion of Personal Space : Hinder free passage, impede a doorway, or stand uncomfortably close to someone, such as directly beside them at a cash machine.
- Disorderly groups : Groups of people collectively engaged in shouting, aggressive or disruptive behaviour, or alcohol-fuelled behaviour likely to cause someone nearby to fear that disorder, abuse or a confrontation may occur.
Under the proposals, anyone engaging in these five behaviours in York city centre could be fined.
York council is now seeking residents’ views on the extension of the order.
Councillor Anna Perrett, executive member with responsibility for safer communities, said: “We are committed to ensuring that York remains a safe, welcoming and enjoyable place for residents, businesses and visitors.
“Your feedback will help us understand local experiences of anti-social behaviour and whether additional PSPO conditions would be an appropriate and proportionate measure to help address any identified issues.
“Your views are important, whether you support, oppose, or have concerns about extending the existing PSPO.”
The consultation is now underway and runs until 18 September. You can have your say by completing the survey online here.
Paper and easy read copies of the survey will be available from Explore libraries and the council’s West Offices HQ.