Public asked for views on plans to tackle anti-social behaviour at Southsea parks
The two parks are seen as ASB hotspots during the summer months
Residents are being invited to have their say over plans to ban alcohol and loud music at two Portsmouth parks in a bid to curb anti-social behaviour.
Portsmouth City Council is asking for public views on whether a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) should be introduced at both Waverley and Wimbledon parks in Southsea.
The proposed order would ban drinking alcohol in the designated areas, alongside restrictions on loud music and public urination.
PSPOs are designed to ensure public spaces “can be enjoyed by everyone, free from anti-social behaviour”. The council says it already deploys community wardens across key parts of the city to “keep residents safe and supported”.
If introduced, police and community wardens would be able to move people on where necessary, with fines of up to £100 in some cases.
Councillor Lee Hunt, cabinet member for community safety, leisure and sport, said: “We’d like to hear from anyone with views on this area of Southsea. We have to follow a legal process before a PSPO is put into place, and as part of that we need to ask the public for their feedback. We will consider all responses received very carefully before making a decision.”
In late March, Denise Perry, then a community campaigner and newly elected councillor for St Jude ward, raised residents’ concerns at a council meeting, saying many felt “intimidated” walking past groups lingering in the parks.
The area is home to supported housing schemes for people with drug and alcohol addiction issues, with residents believing this also contributes towards the issue.
Cllr Perry said she had surveyed 200 local residents, with a majority backing a public consultation.
If made, the PSPO would last for up to three years, after which it would expire unless the council decides to extend it following further consultation.
The consultation is open to people who live or work nearby, as well as park users, running from Monday, May 11 until Sunday, June 21 2026.
Residents can take part in the consultation online at www.research.net/r/PSPO_live