Rethink over banning order at Celtic Point, as yobs continue to 'intimidate' residents and workers

The Public Space Protection Order was the first one in Nottinghamshire when it was introduced at Celtic Point in Gateford last May.

However, council and Nottinghamshire Police chiefs could now change the order to include a larger area, as the youths continue to wreak havoc.

Gerald Connor, community safety co-ordinator at Bassetlaw District Council, said: “While the area the PSPO covers has been proactively policed, an extension to the PSPO is needed to completely rid this community of the anti-social behaviour it has been suffering at the hand of irresponsible youths.

“Over the past few months, we have received complaints relating to the behaviour of groups of youths who have been engaging in intimidating behaviour and being verbally abusive to residents, workers and passers-by in this area.

The council is now proposing to extend the PSPO to include Roman Road, Sulis Gardens, Roundhouse Crescent, Samian Close and 160-180 Raymoth Lane.

The order prohibits shouting, swearing, drinking or acting in a manner as to cause annoyance, harassment, alarm or distress to any person.

It also restricts groups of youths to gather in the vicinity in groups of three or more.

Anyone who breaches the order, could be taken to court and fined up to £1,000.

Rachel Wallus, manager at the Barnardo’s store at Celtic Point, said: “I don’t think the order has made much difference.

“I saw a member of staff at Asda come out and they just started swearing at him.”

“Bikes are left everywhere and it is intimidating near the cash machine.

A spokesman for Cooplands said: “I think it would be a good idea to extend it.

“The odd time I have come shopping it has been intimidating, especially for the elderly people.”