COUNCIL bosses are taking further steps towards introducing a Public Space Protection Order to tackle street drinking in St Helens town centre.

Booze-fuelled anti-social behaviour has been highlighted by Star readers over recent months, particularly in Victoria Square.

The issue, which senior councillors describe as "unacceptable" led to the removal of benches at the front of St Helens Town Hall.

There have been reports of assaults, swearing, disorder and weddings being disrupted due to the unruly behaviour of drunken groups.

READ MORE: 'It's got to the point where people don't want to live here' - residents respond to drunken behaviour in the town centre

In a statement released on Wednesday, St Helens Borough Council said it was working jointly with Merseyside Police and the drug and alcohol support service Change, Grow, Live.

They are looking at feedback from "residents, visitors and businesses about the impact of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour (ASB) in St Helens town centre".

The council says it is considering further action to ensure that public spaces are safe and accessible for all, including the potential for a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

What is a Public Space Protection Order?

The council says: "Authorised under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, a PSPO allows councils to set conditions on the use of specific locations to address behaviours that negatively impact the community.

"When used appropriately and with local support, a PSPO is a positive tool to help prevent anti-social behaviour and could be an effective response to some of the issues local residents and businesses face daily in the town centre.

"The council and its partners would be required to gather public feedback to support a PSPO, ensuring that decision-making is well-informed and that action is proportionate."

Unacceptable impact

Cabinet Member for Supporting Neighbourhoods, Councillor Trisha Long, said: “The impact of alcohol-related ASB as a result of street drinking in our town centre is unacceptable.

"To help us to deal with this issue, it’s really important that the public share their views and experiences of this behaviour through our survey, since that feedback will play a crucial role in making sure any action we take reflects the community’s needs and perspectives.

"We are committed to maintaining the safe and welcoming experience of St Helens Town Centre for all who live, work, and visit here.”

To give your views, complete the online survey here

Town centre businesses can also respond through this link, but they will be approached separately for their views.

Last month a 71-year-old resident in St Helens town centre contacted the Star to say he had seen enough of the "continuing trouble caused by the increasing number of drunk people in Victoria Square".

The problems he highlighted included:

1. Drunk people being offensive to people crossing the square including people with children.

2. Litter being left all over the area.

3. Drugs being sold and used in the square.

4. Drunk people urinating in the road behind Claughton Street, which has several flats with adults and children.

5. Local businesses experiencing a loss in trade.

6. A disgraceful backdrop for guests to the council building.

7. Wedding events being disrupted.

8. A serious assault causing the area to being taped off by police.

9. Total disrespect to memorials and statues.

He called for laws to restrict people from drinking alcohol there.