Sefton Council is inviting residents, businesses, and community groups to take part in a public consultation on proposed Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) for Bootle and Southport town centres.

PSPOs help tackle tackling anti-social behaviour make public spaces safer, more welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone.

Abusive or threatening behaviour, aggressive begging and street drinking are among the behaviours that would be banned under these proposals. Littering, spitting, and public urination are also included.

Cllr Liz Dowd, Sefton Council’s Cabinet member for Communities and Partnership engagement said:

“All of the types of behaviour covered by these proposed Public Space Protection Orders in Bootle and Southport town centres have a negative impact and will deter people from visiting them to shop, for recreation or as tourists.

“Residents, visitors and local businesses have expressed concerns about things like street drinking and aggressive begging. The measure in the proposed PSPOs are the result of evidence gathered by Sefton Council’s Community Safety and Engagement team, in partnership with Merseyside Police and other agencies.

How to have your say

The consultation, which opened today, runs for 28 days until Sunday 7^th December.

People can find out more and have their say on Your Sefton Your Say.

People can also take part by collecting and submitting paper copies of the survey at Bootle and Southport Town Halls and libraries. And there will be engagement events with partner agencies including Police, Public Health, homeless services, and community groups.

How the Results Will Be Used

Feedback from the consultation will be carefully reviewed and used to shape the final PSPO proposal, which will be presented to the Council in early 2026.