A planned crackdown on anti-social behaviour in Bangor has gone out to public consultation.

Last month saw Gwynedd Council 's cabinet approve a new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) which aims to prevent some types of anti-social behaviour which are on the increase in and around the city centre.

Triggered at the request of police, the proposed new powers include targeting those behaving in a manner that is likely to cause harassment, alarm, nuisance or distress and/or loitering in a state of intoxication through alcohol or drug-induced activity.

The existing order was said to be "insufficient to deal with the current issues impacting on local businesses, residents, students and tourists".

Officers will also clamp down on those found loitering or performing for reward within 10 metres of any cash point, and consuming or being in possession of alcohol, likely to cause or causing anti-social behaviour, and refusing to surrender the alcohol to a police officer.

Inspector Kevin Bratherton from North Wales Police said: "The implementation of a PSPO will be a sustainable three-year problem-solving approach between partners to reduce the ongoing crime and anti-social behaviour within Bangor city centre .

"In addition to providing an enforcement option, the PSPO will allow early intervention and prevention through engagement and education.

"It's anticipated this will have a positive impact on anti-social behaviour and crime. None of the proposed conditions are unreasonable and they are specifically designed to tackle identified issues."

Between April 2018 and June 2019, there were 486 incidents of anti-social behaviour and 649 crimes reported in Bangor, according to police.

Cllr Nia Jeffreys, Gwynedd council's cabinet member for corporate support, said: "It is hoped that introducing this order would prevent individuals and groups who behave anti-socially from having an impact on the lives of the residents of the area.

"As the only city in Gwynedd, Bangor is a very special place and there are lots of exciting developments happening there at the moment. It is important to us that individuals who live, work and visit the area feel safe there.

"The additional powers would enable the police to deal with persistent inappropriate behavior in a much more effective way as well as working with potential offenders.

"The council will work with the police and other agencies to ensure that appropriate support is given to these people and the order would not be used to target people who are vulnerable or homeless.

"We urge residents to take a look at the draft order and submit any comments they have on the content by responding to the public consultation."

A draft copy of the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) can be found by visiting gwynedd.llyw.cymru/BangorOrder.

Paper copies are also available at Bangor Library, Bangor Byw'n Iach Leisure Centre and Storiel.

The consultation is open until September 6.

The public feedback will be considered when the cabinet is asked to formally ratify the PSPO in the autumn, with the order expected to remain in place for three years.

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