St Ann’s residents can ‘rest easy’ as problem alleyway to remain gated off

Dane Court, where the PSPO is in place (LDRS)
By Joe Locker, Local Democracy Reporter

People in St Ann’s who had been plagued by anti-social behaviour can “rest easy” after an order to keep a problem alleyway gated off was extended, a local councillor says.

Residents in Dane Court, off Dane Close, first said an alleyway had become a hotspot in 2018.

People had reported mini-motorbikes and scooters had been ridden through it at high speeds,  and fights had broken out after groups of youths had gathered there.

Nottingham City Council put up barriers in the area to prevent access.

They were built under a legal tool called a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), and the order was extended in 2021.

It was due to expire at the end of July this year, however it has again been extended for another three years, until October 2026.

Cllr Corall Jenkins (Lab), executive member for communities who represents the area, said: “It is going to be a welcome opportunity for residents to rest easy.

“It has gone through now so I am hoping residents will be happy.”

A consultation with residents and other authorities took place throughout April and May, and many supported the barriers remaining in place.

Nottinghamshire Police also indicated the extension of the order will
also provide a useful tool in preventing a recurrence of the anti-social behaviour.

In a report Laura Bland, principal enforcement officer at the council, said: “Concerns have been raised by both Nottinghamshire Police and Nottingham City Council’s Community Protection and Housing Services that if this order were to lapse, the behaviours described may restart and the problems may reoccur, resulting in further anti-social behaviour once more in an area that has been provided respite.”

The penalty for committing an offence in an area covered by a PSPO is a maximum fine of £1,000, although the opportunity to pay a fixed penalty notice may be offered instead.

Fixed penalties for offences in breach of a PSPO are £70.