People in Bolton are being asked for their views on whether to extend existing restrictions on anti-social behaviour in the town centre for three more years.
The restrictions aim to make the town centre a more attractive place to live, visit, work, study or do business by tackling nuisances that impact people’s quality of life.
Drinking on the street, taking drugs, begging, street trading, graffiti and loud noises are among the activities that are banned in a large area in and around the town centre.
A smaller zone focussed on the pedestrianised shopping areas would see additional bans extended on cycling, skateboards and scooters.
Anyone who breaches the restrictions faces an immediate fixed penalty notice of £100 or a fine of up to £1,000 if the charge goes to court.
The restrictions are part of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) first enacted in 2019 and extended for a further three years following a consultation in 2021.
The current PSPO is due to end in February 2025.
Now Bolton Council wants to hear people’s views on whether the restrictions should be extended.
A spokesperson for Bolton Council said:
“We want Bolton town centre to feel safe and welcoming for people who live here and those who visit from further afield.
“We’re proud of what Bolton town centre has to offer, like the Octagon theatre and Albert Hall, the refurbished library, the recently opened Elizabeth Park, great retailers like the new Primark store, and the new food hall at Bolton market.
“The current restrictions on anti-social behaviour have worked well, giving the police and council additional powers to tackle nuisances.
“I encourage all our residents to take part in the consultation.”
The consultation is available on the council website until Monday, January 20.