Anti-drinking PSPO consultation launched for central Watford

The area covered by a Watford Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to stop boozing in public spaces is set to be increased when it is up for renewal in December this year, subject to a consultation running until October 31.

Currently, the PSPO means you cannot drink alcohol in any public spaces in an area from Watford Junction to Vicarage Road Stadium/Watford High Street Station (north to south) and Cassiobury Park to the River Colne (west to east).

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In place 24 hours a day, it makes failing to stop drinking and/or failing to surrender any container of alcohol, when asked by an accredited officer including police and PCSOs, an offence in public spaces within the area.

Refusing could lead to a notice for disorder or court summons and a maximum £500 fine.

Watford’s other PSPO, preventing non-commercial vehicles using Albert Road South, between Sainsbury’s and Pryzm, at certain times is also due to expire in December and part of the consultation.

PSPO sign and map of the existing and proposed area covered. (Image: Watford Borough Council)

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “We must make sure that Watford is safe and welcoming, with lots of opportunities for residents and visitors alike to have fun.

“These PSPOs will help to make sure that everyone can continue to feel safe and provide reassurance that we will take antisocial behaviour seriously.”

Once expanded, the no-drinking area would include Watford Fields and Watford High Street as well as Wiggenhall Road, Watford Field Road, Ladys Close, part of Lower High Street, and other smaller roads between these and Century Retail Park.

According to the council: “[PSPOs] are intended to deal with a particular nuisance or problem in a particular area that is detrimental to the local community's quality of life, by imposing conditions on the use of that area which apply to everyone.

Watford Fields (Image: Google Street View)

“They are designed to ensure the law-abiding majority can use and enjoy public spaces, safe from anti-social behaviour.”

Feedback can be given via email to envhealth@watford.gov.uk.

PSPOs are in force for up to three years, after which they can be renewed and/or varied.