A TOWN'S residents and businesses are being asked to help decide if a special public space protection order should be brought in to protect their community.

The Order, could ban the drinking of alcohol, restrict access to parts of the town or stop groups gathering together. The move is being considered after complaints to the police and Hambleton district council from residents in Stokesley, particularly involving the High Street and Silver Street.

Councillor Bridget Fortune, Hambleton council's Portfolio member for Leisure said short term steps have already been taken through the Safer Hambleton Hub, but they're looking at permanent moves to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors.

She added: “We are considering all options that may help to reduce these concerns from gating off access to Silver Street either permanently or at certain times of the day, banning the drinking of alcohol in the areas where issues occur, or stopping groups of people being together in the High Street area at all times or certain times."

Two public events are being held as part of a survey of residents and people are being encouraged to attend or complete the survey. The events are at Stokesley Library on Thursday August 24, from 2 to 5pm and Saturday September 9, from 9.30am to 1.30pm.

Other organisations who can offer support to members of the public will be attending to give community safety advice.

  • The survey can also be completed online at www.hambleton.gov.uk/survey/Stokesley or copies are available from the area office at Town Close or Stokesley Police Station, to be returned by September 30