CONFIDENTIAL DOSSIER: BRIDGWATER CENTRAL ACCOUNTABILITY TRACKER: STREET DRINKERS

“Published exclusively for campaign subscribers. Access Level: SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE” UPDATED 24.10.26

Case File

Case Ref: Contact SD1 Filed: 6.10.26

Summary: This message was sent by local campaigner Gary Tucker to Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody, regarding the ongoing impact of street drinkers on local businesses and public safety in the Bridgwater town centre

The Questions asked:

  • How many banning orders are currently in place for street drinkers in the town centre?

  • Have the ringleaders actually been identified and tackled in Bridgwater, given that evidence suggests this approach works?

  • What is the strategy for dealing with these street drinkers and moving them away from the town centre within limited police resources?

    Police Response:

  • No Drinking Zone in Place: The police confirmed there is currently no Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) or "no drinking zone" in Bridgwater town centre, noting this must be introduced by Somerset Council.

  • Admitted Problem Moving (Displacement): Police acknowledge that targeting single benches or town centre spots has simply pushed street drinking into surrounding residential streets and estate paths.

  • Complex Needs Approach: Officers are using Anti-Social Behaviour orders, dispersal notices, and arrests for shop theft, but emphasize that alcohol addiction requires support services alongside enforcement.

  • Formal Problem-Solving Plan Active: Neighbourhood officers are working on a multi-agency plan focusing on key trouble spots (including the Robert Blake statue, Baptist Church, and Nationwide frontage) with local businesses and outreach groups.

ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN BY ME:

  • Challenge Somerset Council on the Missing PSPO: Call on local authority leaders to give police the tools they need by formally establishing a Public Space Protection Order for Bridgwater town centre.

  • Push for Estate-Wide Protection: Ensure any new enforcement powers or town centre plans include measures to prevent displacement into local residential neighbourhoods.

  • Demand Clear Accountability & Data: Track updates from the multi-agency Problem-Solving Plan to ensure hotspot monitoring delivers visible local results, not just passive reporting.

ANSWERED & LOGGED