New signs in Public Space Protection zones

New signs have been placed in three town centres in Ceredigion to help play a positive part in improving experiences of residents and visitors alike.

Public Space Protection Orders “Alcohol Free Zones” were originally placed in Aberystwyth, Cardigan and Lampeter town centres in 2017 and have since been extended to October 2023.

Following renewal of the orders, a survey was conducted by Ceredigion Community Safety officers of the signage whereby 33 missing and unreadable signs were replaced to remind people of these alcohol-free zones.

Councillor Matthew Vaux, Ceredigion County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “It is hoped that these protective measures, in conjunction with the support of the local police, will continue to play a positive part in improving the experience of residents and visitors in Aberystwyth, Lampeter and Cardigan Town Centres.”

Public Space Protection Orders are made under the Anti-social behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and prohibit the consumption of alcohol in public places within the designated zones. They allow Police Officers to confiscate any alcohol being consumed or any alcohol they believe is about to be opened and consumed within the Zones.

An offence is committed by a person if they refuse to surrender the alcohol to the Police Officer or if they refuse to move out of the Zones to consume the alcohol, and they may be taken to court with the maximum fine for this offence being £500.