Plans to tackle aggressive begging in Birmingham city centre move forward

National World - LocalTV

Plans to renew Birmingham city centre's Public Space Protection Order are moving forward, with proposals to address antisocial behaviours. The council says the measures aim to create a safer environment, but concerns have been raised about the impact on vulnerable people.

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00:00Birmingham City Council is renewing its public spice protection order for the

00:04city centre this month, introducing measures to tackle aggressive begging,

00:08public urination and improper disposal of drug paraphernalia. The council says

00:13the changes responded to concerns about rising antisocial behaviour. The PSPO

00:19currently covers gang activity, substance misuse and graffiti, but new

00:24provisions target intrusive begging such as inviting personal spice or causing

00:29alarm during events like the Frankfurt Christmas market. Critics however warn

00:34of the potential impact on vulnerable homeless individuals. The council says

00:39multi-agency teams are working to connect those in need with support

00:43services. Businesses have reported that aggressive begging negatively affects

00:48visitors experiences, rising safety concerns for staff and guests. The

00:53updated PSPO aims to address these issues and improve the city centre

00:57safety and atmosphere.

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