COUNCIL chiefs are being asked to consider a fresh approach to tackling boozy behaviour in Workman Gardens.
Members of Wychavon District Council’s Exective Board will consider a proposal to introduce a Designated Public Place Order (DPPO) for the picturesque park at a meeting on Tuesday (October 14).
The thorny issue of drinking and alleged anti social behaviour has blighted Workman Gardens and nearby residents since 2010.
Long suffering residents in Monks Close and boaters moored up for the night regularly complained about groups of men drinking, urinating in the river and bushes, excessive noise and serious anti social behaviour.
Efforts to tackle the problem including removing the benches, increased police patrols and the introduction of CCTV appeared to curb the problem.
But the DPPO proposals have been brought forward following a rise in the number and regularity of complaints of anti-social behaviour in the park in the last 12 months.
The report to councillors states: “Some of those complaints have involved people drinking and committing criminal offences, in the main urinating in the park after the toilets are closed.
“The majority of complaints simply involve groups of men congregating and drinking in Workman Gardens, giving an intimidating affect on local residents walking in the area and visitors.”
In response to the recent rise in complaints, Evesham’s Community Safety Team confirmed regular patrols had been introduced talking to residents and drinkers.
Polish speaking CSOs had also been dispatched to the area and regular meetings with South Worcestershire Police have also been held.
A two week patrol from a local security company was also put in place during the summer to confirm many of the allegations being made by local residents.
If introduced, the DPPO gives police officers and PCSOs additional powers to move street drinkers in groups of two or more who are thought to be causing a public nuisance or anti social behaviour.
South Worcestershire Police confirmed they would support the introduction of a DPPO but said they would not attend the area unless the drinking was accompanied by anti-social behaviour.
“Officers do reguarly patrol the area but will not respond to calls about persons (just) drinking.” the report states.
Members of the Evesham Town Safer Neighbourhood Team will be available to discuss ongoing issues in Workman Gardens tomorrow (Saturday) from 10am to 2pm.
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