GWYNEDD Council is asking people to share their views on its intention to introduce new measures in three specific towns within the county to tackle antisocial behaviour.

There is an opportunity for people with links to Caernarfon, Criccieth and Pwllheli to have their say on plans to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in the three towns.

If the council proceeds with the orders, the authorities will have additional powers within these areas to tackle specific nuisances or issues, with the aim of improving the lives of residents and visitors in the area.

For instance, the restrictions under consideration by the council for Pwllheli, Criccieth and Caernarfon would make it easier for the authorities to prevent people from consuming alcohol in public spaces and from loitering when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

It will also give authorities new powers to prevent people from behaving in a way that would cause others harassment, alarm, nuisance or distress. 

READ MORE:

Top 10 Gwynedd roads with most parking tickets in 12 months

This week in court in Denbighshire, Conwy, Gwynedd and Anglesey

Cllr Dilwyn Morgan, Gwynedd Council cabinet member with responsibility for community safety, said: “Gwynedd is a pleasant place to live and to work and we take pride in our welcoming communities.

“However, unfortunately – as is the case for towns and villages in all parts of the country – from time to time, we see unacceptable behaviour which can cause alarm to the rest of the community.

“To be able to respond to specific situations we are considering introducing a PSPO in the towns of Criccieth, Caernarfon and Pwllheli.

“These additional powers are aimed at enabling the police to deal much more effectively with a small minority of people who are having a negative impact on our communities.

“We are confident that this will protect the majority of the public who wish to live peaceful lives without fear for their personal safety or the security of their property. 

“I would encourage people with links to these areas to visit Gwynedd Council’s website to view the maps of the proposed areas, and to share their views on the plans.”

Chief Inspector Lisa Jones, of North Wales Police, said: “The consultations to implement PSPOs in Pwllheli, Criccieth and Caernarfon are an important step in tackling concerns raised by residents and wider community members.

“Antisocial behaviour can have a detrimental impact on those living, working and visiting the area.

“If granted, the PSPOs would assist local policingtTeams in dealing with a minority of individuals who are persistent on behaving in an anti-social manner, supporting North Wales Police’s priorities of fighting, preventing and reducing crime.”

To find out more and to have your say on the PSPO plans for the areas of Caernarfon, Cricieth and Pwllheli, go to Gwynedd Council's website.

This consultation is open until April 7.

The feedback will then be considered by councillors and officers before drawing up proposals for the final PSPO, to be considered by all Gwynedd Council members.