The Fishwick area of Preston, Lancashire, has become a focal point of concern due to pervasive antisocial behavior plaguing its streets and public spaces. Residents express growing fear and frustration over the blatant disregard for community well-being, citing open drug and alcohol use, discarded paraphernalia like syringes and condoms, and public urination and defecation as recurring issues. This degradation of public spaces has prompted local authorities to consider implementing strict new measures, including a potential Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), to combat the escalating problems and restore a sense of safety and order to the neighborhood.
The heart of the issue lies in the unchecked antisocial behavior that has become normalized in Fishwick. Residents recount witnessing groups congregating in public areas, engaging in open alcohol and drug consumption, often leaving behind a trail of litter and discarded paraphernalia. This behavior not only creates an unsanitary and unsafe environment but also fosters an atmosphere of intimidation and fear among residents, particularly families with young children. A dilapidated phone box near a nursery has become a notorious hub for such activities, highlighting the vulnerability of the area and the urgent need for intervention. The constant presence of this behavior erodes the quality of life for residents, leaving them feeling trapped and helpless in their own neighborhood.
The accounts of residents paint a grim picture of daily life in Fishwick. Elderly residents describe feeling unsafe due to noisy groups congregating and littering near their homes. Families express concern for the safety of their children, forced to navigate streets littered with drug paraphernalia. The pervasiveness of the problem is underscored by the presence of discarded mattresses, further evidence of the disrespect shown for public spaces. The cumulative effect of these issues has led to Fishwick being labeled by some as the “UK’s worst” neighborhood, a label that reflects the deep-seated problems and the urgent need for change.
The proposed PSPO aims to address these issues directly by prohibiting specific antisocial behaviors within the designated area. These prohibitions include the consumption of alcohol and open containers, the use of intoxicating substances, public urination and defecation, the discarding of drug paraphernalia and condoms, obstructing building entrances and exits, and engaging in antisocial behavior likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress. The PSPO would empower authorized officers, including police and council officials, to enforce these rules and issue penalties to those who violate them. The hope is that by clearly defining prohibited behaviors and providing a mechanism for enforcement, the PSPO will deter antisocial activities and create a safer, more livable environment for residents.
However, the proposed PSPO is not without its detractors. Some argue that the problems in Fishwick have been exaggerated and that the measures are too draconian. They point to the presence of security cameras, many of which are no longer functional, as evidence of previous failed attempts to address the issues. Others contend that public drinking, while perhaps undesirable to some, is a cultural norm for certain groups and should not be criminalized. This divergence of opinion highlights the complexity of the issue and the need for a balanced approach that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders.
The future of Fishwick hangs in the balance. The proposed PSPO represents a significant step towards tackling the entrenched antisocial behavior plaguing the area. The upcoming public consultation will be a crucial opportunity for residents to voice their opinions and shape the final decision. The success of any intervention will depend on the collective efforts of the community, local authorities, and law enforcement to create a safer and more respectful environment for all. The hope is that through these combined efforts, Fishwick can shed its negative label and emerge as a thriving community where residents feel safe, valued, and proud of their neighborhood.
