New measures to tackle anti-social behaviour at a popular Teesdale beauty spot have come into force.
Durham County Council has introduced a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in the area around High Force, Low Force and Gibson’s Cave.
The areas form part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and UNESCO Global Geopark and are designated sites of special scientific interest.
Following extensive consultation, which strongly supported the PSPO, the council hopes the measure will help protect the landscape after a large influx of visitors throughout the pandemic.
Cllr John Shuttleworth, Cabinet member for highways, rural communities and community safety, said: “While the majority of visitors are well behaved, an increase in anti-social behaviour by a minority of people is impacting on the environment and spoiling the enjoyment of the area for others.
“We hope the new PSPO powers will encourage people to enjoy these beautiful locations safely and responsibly and help us to protect them for generations to come.”
Issues have included problems with alcohol and substance use, leaving litter and waste, the irresponsible use of barbecues, graffiti and jumping from cliffs and bridges.
The PSPO is enforceable between 1st April and 30th September each year, for the next three years.
During those dates, it is an offence to:
• continue to drink alcohol when asked to
stop
• be under the influence of controlled drugs
• light a fire or barbecue
• behave in a way that causes or is likely to
cause harassment, obstruction or
concern for safety to others, including
congregating in a group
• threaten and/or abuse people
• throw objects which can cause damage,
nuisance, or injury to any person, animal
or structure
• camp or sleep overnight
Where the PSPO is breached, designated council officers and Durham Constabulary staff will be able to issue a Fixed Penalty Notice, with failure to pay leading to prosecution.
Meanwhile, a PSPO has also been renewed in Durham City, banning the consumption of alcohol in specific parts of the city centre.
The measure first came into force in 2019 and, following consultation, has been extended for a further three years until 30th June 2025.
More information about the new enforcement powers in Teesdale can be found at www.durham.gov.uk/highforcepspo