PEOPLE in the Pill area of Newport have said they are feeling positive about the effect new powers given to police will have on street drinking, drug taking and anti-social behaviour in the area.

An “action” day took place in the area today to raise awareness of the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which was given the green light last month. The order bans street-drinking and the taking, selling or supplying of any psychoactive substances.

It also gives police and police community support officers the power to demand groups of three or more people leave an area, with a potential £1,000 fine for breaching the order.

Resident Pam Glover, of Adeline Street, was at the event. She said: “The PSPO is good, I am glad something is being done. It is making a difference already.”

She said that all is needed now is “continuity” in the action being taken.

Pill councillor Tracey Holyoake said tackling crime and anti-social behaviour is a priority. She said: “I think the PSPO is going to make a difference in the area.

“We are covering all the aspects, including helping the vulnerable to get to the right services.”

During the day, a litter pick was organised by Pride in Pill, which collected more than two tonnes of rubbish. Leaflets were also distributed to businesses and residents to raise awareness of the PSPO.

Traders were asked to join the “Pride in Newport” pledge, committing to keep the front of their shops clean.

South Wales Fire and Rescue with Newport Council Environmental Health visited properties and identified four properties of concern with problems identified including fire risks and houses in disrepair.

Gwent Police Inspector Paul Davies said there has been a “massive” amount of work being carried in the area in the past few months and that the PSPO will improve the quality of life of those living or working in Pill.

He said: “This is the start of the journey. The PSPO is a real powerful piece of legislation.

“We have never done something like this before and we are hoping it will have a huge impact.”

A resident at the event, which took place at the Pill Mill centre, asked why the PSPO doesn’t cover sex work. Police said that, as sex workers are “victims”, diversionary tactics are used to deal with them.