A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour in Weymouth takes effect today as new rules come into force.

The Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) 2018 – enforced with fines – has been introduced by the borough council to target begging and drinking alcohol in public places.

The order covers restricted areas within Weymouth plus Easton Square on Portland.

The order also covers cycling on the promenade and feeding gulls.

It has been introduced following a public consultation and approval by councillors.

New signs are going up to make people aware of the PSPO. Maps showing affected areas can be viewed on dorsetforyou.gov.uk

The provisions contained within the PSPO will complement police and other council measures as well as the soon to be launched Community Safety Accreditation Scheme.

Cllr Mike Byatt, Community Safety Briefholder at Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, said: “The aim of these measures is simple. We want our lovely public spaces kept free from anti-social behaviour, so they can be enjoyed by all.

Details of the order are:

Begging - New rules banning begging within the restricted area. The public consultation called for measures to deter begging in the town centre. Begging is already prohibited on the promenade.

Consuming alcohol: The PSPO will make it an offence to continue to consume alcohol where a constable or authorised officer has directed someone not to do so to prevent public nuisance, public order or anti-social behaviour. Alcohol can be confiscated and fines issued if people don't comply.

Cycling on the promenade: Rules will now only restricting cycling between 10am and 5.30pm from Good Friday to October 31.

Intentional feeding of gulls: Within the restricted areas, the PSPO will make it an offence for any person to provide or deposit food, intentionally, for the consumption of gulls. This measure has been introduced to help tackle the growing problem of gulls causing alarm, annoyance and injury.

Cllr Byatt said: “We understand the difficulties of situations that lead individuals to begging, and will continue to be sensitive to people genuinely in need of our support. However, fixed penalty notices will be available if there is no other alternative to tackle the problem."

He added: “I am especially pleased that cycling in the summer during quieter periods will now be welcomed along the promenade, as we are keen to do what we can to promote fitness and physical activity.”