A PUBLIC Space Protection Order (PSPO) has been promoted since December – and formally comes into force today, March 7.

It applies to behaviour such as going to the toilet in public, drug-taking and drunkenness – and everybody is being asked to comply.

People who are vulnerable due to circumstances such as homelessness will be treated sensitively; housing and outreach services will be involved.

The PSPO – part of a broader and coordinated Swansea approach to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) and street vulnerability – is designed to boost the city centre which is already being improved.

The PSPO – which had widespread public support in a public consultation – means that alcohol and drugs such as legal highs being consumed on the streets can be confiscated before the situation becomes a problem. Fixed penalty notices can now be issued for ASB such as excessive swearing and aggression. Other action can be taken to deal with persistent troublemakers.

December saw the start of an engagement and education phase of the PSPO in areas currently patrolled by the city centre rangers plus the Marina. It will also apply to the Copr Bay coastal park and bridge once they open to the public. If successful, PSPOs could be introduced in areas such as SA1, Swansea Beach and the centre of Morriston.

Every year, hundreds of complaints about ASB are made to Swansea city centre rangers. Police records show it to be a key issue affecting the city centre.

Since December, rangers have been explaining to people how the PSPO will work and how – by not being involved in anti-social behaviour – they can comply.

Enforcement will continue to be a last resort with people first being given a warning and asked to remedy their behaviour. Subsequent actions could include fixed penalty notices or other ASB powers being used.

Rangers continue to work closely with the police and outreach services so that actions are tailored to the individual. This could mean additional support for those who need it.