NEWPORT City Council is looking to combat anti-social behaviour in the city centre by rolling out a reivised Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), outlining tighter controls on begging and anti-social behaviour.

The council are holding an Action Day today at St Paul’s Walk, which will see them set out plans to bolster the well-being of the city centre, address crime and anti-social behaviour concerns, build community trust and promote community involvement.

The council’s cabinet member for licensing and regulation councillor Ray Truman will be joined by representatives from Gwent Police, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, housing associations and third sector organisations.

Cllr Truman said: “We consulted with the public over the revised city centre PSPO and the new restrictions on begging and anti-social behaviour will give the police the powers to tackle this.

“The partnership approach is essential so we all work together to help make Newport a safer and more pleasant place to live and work.”

South Wales Argus:

Newport City Centre Inspector John Davies of Gwent Police welcomed the revised city centre PSPO and the extra powers it provides.

He said: “Public Spaces Protection Orders are being used in the city to protect our communities from behaviour that is having, or is likely to have, a detrimental effect on their quality of life.

“The powers given by the new PSPO will ensure our main priorities of tackling anti-social behaviour and begging can be enforced holistically with our partners. It is just a small part of the work, which is going on all the time to make the city a safe place that people will want to live, work and visit.

“I would encourage anyone who is suffering with a particular issue in their community to contact their local Neighbourhood Team to discuss their concerns or call 101. If a crime is taking place, please always dial 999.”