AN ANTISOCIAL behaviour order has been proposed for Hamble following increasing criminal behaviour around the pontoon.

Eastleigh Borough Council are to start a consultation on a special order that can control activities in the area of the Hamble foreshore.

The council is looking for views on a proposed Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) covering a ten-metre boundary around the pontoon.

It is aimed at tackling problems, particularly prevalent in summer, including large groups jumping into the water, boats being vandalised, tenders being untied and overturned; safety equipment being removed, and swimmers obstructing the Hamble Ferry and other vessels.

Chair of the Local Area Committee, Councillor Tonia Craig (pictured) said: “The PSPO aims to improve and protect the local area for Hamble residents and businesses, as well as the many visitors the village attracts every summer.

“We value the opinion of local people and this consultation is your opportunity to have your say.”

The PSPO would give police officers, police community support officers and some council personnel additional powers to tackle behaviour that has a negative impact on the quality of life for people living and working in the local area.

The proposal follows representations to the council by the Parish Council, Harbour Master, the police and members of the public.

Local residents and businesses are being urged to take part in the consultation which will ask three key questions: whether they agree with the proposal; if there are any changes they would like to see to the restricted area for the PSPO, and what impacts the order may have on the area, or on local people.

Their views will be considered before a decision is made on the proposed PSPO by the Bursledon, Hamble-le-Rice & Hound Local Area Committee when they meet on June 13.

The consultation closes on April 21 and information on how to take part, including a survey, background information, a map and frequently asked questions can be found on Eastleigh Borough Council’s website.

Chief Inspector Darren Miller said: “We are aware of concerns from the community relating to reports of anti-social behaviour in Hamble.

“The Public Spaces Protection Order is an option and we welcome the public consultation on whether it would be an effective tool to utilise to tackle this local issue.

“We will formally provide a response to the consultation in due course.”

It comes after the announcement that “beat surgeries” are set take place in Hamble where residents can speak to police about their concerns.

The first surgery will be held on March 29 at The Mercury in the High Street from 11am until 12.30pm.

Future surgereis will be held on April 12 and May 10.