Begging, rough sleeping, and drinking alcohol have all been outlawed in Welwyn Garden City's town centre.

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council has introduced the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to clamp down on anti-social behaviour.

The PSPO is now in effect, meaning the consumption of alcohol, begging, public urination/defecation, and rough sleeping are outlawed in the area, empowering police and council officers with the ability to issue fixed penalty notices and lead prosecution efforts.

The PSPO is intended to keep public spaces safe and enjoyable for residents and businesses.

On Wednesday, April 10 from 2pm, the council's Community Safety Partnership (CSP) team, Anti-Social Behaviour team, and street wardens, as well as Hertfordshire police, will be on hand in the town centre.

There will also be an information stall outside the Howard Centre, offering details about the PSPO, answering questions, and outlining the measures taken to ensure public safety.

Residents and businesses are urged to report any sightings of the newly forbidden activities, or general anti-social behaviour, on the police non-emergency number 101.

Furthermore, any concerns about potential homelessness should be relayed to StreetLink at thestreetlink.org.uk.

For further details on the new PSPO, visit welhat.gov.uk/WGCPSPO.