To implement a Public Spaces Protection Order at Hopes Nose, Torquay and Berry Head, Brixham until 31 December 2024, fixed penalty notices will be issued with fines of £100 and enforcement activity will take place to support the order.

The Council has consulted with a variety of stakeholders including but not limited to the general public, Devon & Cornwall Police, Natural England, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Devon Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority and Member of Parliament. There has been overwhelming support for the introduction of a PSPO as a short-term measure over the next two fishing seasons to allow for the development of longer term options for the management of these spaces.

To retain the status quo, this option was rejected given the ongoing concerns and issues experienced by members of the community when seeking to enjoy these spaces.

This decision will be implemented immediately.

Following continued reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) at Hopes Nose, Torquay and increasing reports of the same at Berry Head, Brixham the Council has consulted on the potential for a public spaces protection order to be introduced at these two locations. In addition to the disruption caused at the sites by the antisocial behaviour there is a material risk to Torbay’s UNESCO Global Geopark designation. Loss of this designation would have long term reputational harm for Torbay.

None.