- ITV Report
Whitehaven residents 'afraid' to go into town
A public space protection order (PSPO) has been issued in Whitehaven.
Concerned residents and business owners say chaos has filled the streets and they are 'afraid' to be in the west Cumbrian town after numerous reports of drunken trouble-makers.
After a decision to clamp down on anti-social behaviour, the local council issued the order for Whitehaven on 11 July.
Recently, St Nicholas' Gardens was invaded with drinkers causing an uproar with local people. They have been spotted urinating on the church wall.
The coastal town is not the only place that has a PSPO in west Cumbria. Several locations across the borough have been issued the order, such as Egremont, Cleator Moor and Frizington.
Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, has also welcomed the order.
A PSPO can apply to all people, or limited only to certain people, and can be restricted to specific times. It lasts for 3 years but can be renewed if necessary.
Failure to comply with the order can result in a fine or a fixed penalty notice.