PEOPLE are being urged to have their say on proposals to extend a ban on the consumption of alcohol in public spaces in Durham City.

Durham County Council is seeking views on a proposed extension to a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which would prohibit the drinking of alcohol in a specific part of the city for the next three years.

The council is also proposing to introduce another order for the same area which would make aggressive begging a punishable offence, in line with other towns and cities in the region.

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Three other north east authorities have already introduced orders to tackle forms of begging in Middlesbrough, Sunderland and Gateshead and there are concerns that the issue of aggressive techniques by persistent beggars is increasing in Durham and contributing to anti-social behaviour.

Councillor John Shuttleworth said: “We welcome the views of everyone who lives, works, studies in and visits Durham, as well as charities that support rough sleepers and partners including the police and parish council.

“It is important to us that everyone can use and enjoy our public spaces safely and free from anti-social behaviour, and a PSPO is one measure we can use to ensure this. We also use a range of other intervention methods, including education, to tackle anti-social behaviour and support vulnerable individuals across the county.”

Consultation will run until 5pm on Friday April 29.

To take part, people can complete an online survey at www.durham.gov.uk/consultation, email consultations@durham.gov.uk or attend the Durham Area Action Partnership (AAP) board meeting at 6pm on Wednesday March 23.

To book a place at the AAP meeting, email dcaap@durham.gov.uk

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