RESIDENTS are being invited to take part in a public consultation on how best to keep Leigh town centre free from anti-social behaviour.

Wigan Council with support from Greater Manchester Police has launched a consultation to gather opinions about extending a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in the town centres.

A PSPO is put in place to make sure residents are free to use public spaces confidently and free from the threat of harm or distress.

The current PSPOs have been in position since October 2016 and aim to prevent people from using intoxicating substances, begging and engaging in anti-social behaviour.

The council is proposing to extend the current arrangements for a 12-month period but want to hear views from residents before that happens.

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Councillor Kevin Anderson, cabinet member for police, crime and civil contingencies, said: “PSPOs are just one of the tools at our disposal which allows the council and our partners to address anti-social behaviour for the benefit of our residents, visitors and local businesses.

“So, to help us decide on the best way forward for Leigh and Wigan, we want to know what you think.

"The feedback would influence whether or not we chose to proceed with this power and if so, what the PSPO would constitute.

“We are hoping for as much community involvement in the consultation as possible.”

Under the guidelines, the orders mean anyone found to be engaging in anti-social behaviour will be made to leave the area and not allowed to return for 24 hours when ordered to do so by a police constable or PCSO unless they live in the designated area.

In the original consultation, more than 600 residents completed a survey with over 300 of these providing specific comments.

Over 90 per cent of responders were in favour of the implementation of the orders.

Once forms are completed, the survey responses will be analysed and be used to inform the council’s decision about how the proposed PSPO is progressed.

All answers will be kept confidential.

The consultation is open for comments until Wednesday.

To complete the Leigh town survey, click here.

To complete the Wigan town survey, click here.