CONSULTATION on plans for a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) affecting large parts of West Kirby and into Hoylake is continuing. 

The proposed measure follows reports of crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.

If implemented, it would give police or 'other authorised officers' power to ask anyone who is in a public place within the PSPO boundary, who is in a gathering of four or more people, to leave the area if it is believed they might be involved in behaviour "likely to cause alarm, harassment or distress" to anyone else within the PSPO area.

The wearing of face coverings - except those required by law, or worn for religious or health reasons relating to an existing medical condition or vulnerability, would also be prohibited.

If adopted, anyone guilty of breaching the terms of the PSPO is liable to a fine on prosecution not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale (currently £1,000). Alternatively, authorised officers can issue a Fixed Penalty Notice (£100) if appropriate.

There's a chance to find out more and have your say on the proposal by paying a visit to one of the pop-up surgeries at West Kirby Concourse.

Residents can take part in the consultation by visiting Wirral Council’s Have Your Say website and completing the online survey – but for more information or to have a conversation about the proposals, you can speak to a member of the Community Safety team or Merseyside Police who will be available in the foyer of West Kirby Concourse at certain times over the next few weeks.

Pop-up surgeries are scheduled to take place at West Kirby Concourse on:

  • Wednesday, June 19, from midday to 1pm
  • Wednesday, July 3, from 5pm to 6pm
  • Wednesday, July 17, from midday to 1pm
  • Wednesday, July 31, from 5pm to 6pm

The team will be able to give more information about what the PSPO proposals include, answer any questions you may have and tell you how you can provide your feedback.

Created by the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, a PSPO is intended to deal with activities in a defined area that are "considered to be detrimental to the local community's quality of life".

It can do this by imposing conditions on the use of that area so that the majority of people can enjoy the public space.

The West Kirby PSPO is proposed to cover built-up areas between the Kings Gap roundabout in Hoylake to the north and Cubbins Green, West Kirby to the south, extending at its furthest point east to the Gilroy Road/Saughall Massie Road junction.

The consultation ends on Wednesday, August 14 2024.

A decision on whether to implement the proposed PSPO will take place after the consultation ends. 

This proposed PSPO will be in addition to the existing order which covers West Kirby Beach and Cubbins Green which is due to expire on September 3, 2024. There are several prohibitions already in place within this area to tackle anti-social behaviour.