A NEW order which makes it a public offence to drink alcohol in a designated area within Trowbridge was implemented this week.

The Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) began on Monday, with representatives from Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Council and Friends of Trowbridge Park coming together to officially mark its launch.

It came about after a total of 91 calls were made to police from members of the public over the summer months relating to anti-social drinking in the town centre and means anybody caught consuming alcohol, urinating or defecating in the area could be liable to prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

Angus Macpherson, Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “This is a great example of the community coming together and saying that this kind of behaviour is not acceptable.

“Policing in this country has far more impact when it’s supported by other authorities such as Wiltshire Council, which this order has highlighted.

“The park is a lovely asset for Trowbridge and we need to make sure it’s not blighted for those who use it.”

Action was taken against people caught drinking in the park in summer through the use of dispersal orders and the Designated Public Protection Order, but feedback from the local community suggested a total ban on drinking alcohol was needed.

Sharl Adabashi, chairman of Friends of Trowbridge Park, said: “My desire to see this happen began five years ago when I saw a lady with a pram do a U-turn in the park because she was intimidated by a group of people drinking.

“Lots of great work has been carried out to make this park even better but people are staying away from it as they feel threatened. Of course not all drinkers are violent but their behaviour can be unpredictable.

“A similar order to this has been implemented in the town before but there was ambiguity surrounding it, whereas this one sends out a clear message. This is great news for Trowbridge.”

The designated area includes the park and the bridge just off Wicker Hill, where problems have been caused by groups of drinkers in the past.

Jerry Wickham, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for public health and public protection, said he is ‘very happy’ to see the order implemented and that it represents the most up-to-date legislation being put into practice to combat an ongoing problem.

To report anyone drinking alcohol in public places within the designated area, call 101.