Barnet finally ban street drinking in Burnt Oak
Barnet Council has finally ordered a ban on street drinking in Burnt Oak, after repeated complaints about anti-social behaviour. The Public Space Protecton order (PSPO) was supported by 93% of residents in a recent consultation.
The Council and police officers will be able to confiscate alcohol from anyone drinking publicly outside of a licensed venue, such as a pub or restaurant, in the PSPO restricted area. Those who refuse to hand it over will face a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice or a summons to court, with a fine of up to £1,000.
Labour London Assembly Member for Barnet and Camden Andrew Dismore said:
‘This has been a long time coming. The Council has ignored the needs of Burnt Oak for far too long, despite repeated efforts by local Councillors and myself to raise the issue. Burnt Oak was found to be the 5th worst Town Centre in the country in a study a few years ago, because of the Council’s total neglect. Credit must go to local residents and the local Councillors who have campaigned for the PSPO for a long time.’
Burnt Oak Councillor Sara Conway added:
‘A Public Space Protection Order to prohibit street drinking is something I have been working on with residents and stakeholders over many months. I am so pleased to see this is happening and would like to thank all the residents who have been involved, the Council workers and our local police. I really hope we can start making things better for our Burnt Oak community’
