New Shrewsbury antisocial behaviour powers 'won't stop people enjoying themselves'
New beefed up powers to get to grips with antisocial behaviour in Shrewsbury town centre won't be used to control activity that is simply 'beyond the norm', a meeting heard.
It comes after major concerns were voiced over the “escalating” problems of people drinking, taking drugs and intimidating members of the public in the town centre – with one business owner describing Pride Hill as “the Wild West”.
Shropshire Council's ruling cabinet was told on Wednesday that a new batch of officers called on to decide what is or is not antisocial behaviour will be 'trained and trusted' to use their judgement.
Councillor Julian Dean said he was concerned that new powers could be used to 'control behaviour that is outside the norm'.
He spoke of a well-known character who uses a device to amplify sound and walks around the town.
"Everyone is used to him and are not annoyed," he told the meeting on Wednesday.
"It is just someone who has behaviour outside the norm, not by itself antisocial."
Councillor Dean said he was worried that new powers could be used to control behaviour that should not be controlled by "bullies of behaviour in public places".
Conservative council leader Lezley Picton said someone had complained to her about 'antisocial behaviour' in Shrewsbury town centre that turned out to be "four or five lads sitting with a guitar in The Square".
She said it is not the intention to control people who are simply enjoying themselves.
