CALLINGTON Town Council is urging members of the community to express their views on a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) proposed for a busy car park in the town.

Council members have received an increase of reports of anti-social behaviour in the free car park in Saltash Road, and at Tuesday’s town council meeting members agreed to look at adopting the order as a way of protecting the ‘neighbouring residents’.

Councillors proposed to look into the PSPO which targets areas regularly plagued with anti-social activity including intimidating behaviour and people revving car engines.

Callington Town Council would like residents who have been affected by the anti-social behaviour to get in contact. They also want to hear from town residents who use the car park who may be affected if a PSPO is introduced.

Callington town clerk Helen Dowdall said the council’s goal was to protect the car park and the neighbouring residents.

‘One man told us that he has had sleepless nights due to the anti-social behaviour in the car park, especially with people revving their engines. I have asked Cornwall Council and the police for advice and they have said that a Public Space Protection Order would be an idea so we are inviting the public to give their views.

‘Other areas to consider include shutting off the car park but we are looking at the bigger picture as the car park does provide a great use for commuters and is an asset to the town.

‘We don’t want to close it off but we don’t want residents to feel intimidated.’

PSPOs were created by the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to deal with a particular nuisance in a particular area that is having a detrimental effect on the quality of life for those in the local community. It can prohibit certain things or require specific things to be done.

A PSPO lasts no longer than three years but can be renewed if necessary. Failure to comply with the order can result in a fine or a fixed penalty notice.

To contact Callington Town Council call 01579 384039.