Welcome for new measures to tackle Exeter street drinkers

Wednesday, 4 November 2026 at 07:03

By Guy Henderson, Local Democracy Reporter

New ‘Respect Orders’ to tackle anti–social behaviour have been welcomed by politicians in Exeter.

The new orders came into effect last week, giving police and the city council stronger powers to tackle repeat adult offenders and make streets and neighbourhoods safer.
Almost eight out of 10 anti-social behaviour incidents reported in Exeter relate to rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour, which can be associated with street drinking.
Under the new orders the authorities can take more effective action against relentless offenders impacting local neighbourhoods. For instance, they enable courts to ban adult offenders from engaging in specified activities such as public drinking on a particular high street. 
They can also compel individuals to undertake drug or alcohol treatment, with arrests, fines, community orders or even prison sentences possible.
Exeter’s Labour MP Steve Race said: “Persistent anti-social behaviour can have a real impact on people’s quality of life, and I know Exeter residents are frustrated when they aren’t able to enjoy our high street, and even their local neighbourhood.
“Respect Orders are a welcome step forward from this Labour government, giving Exeter City Council and our local police more effective ways to intervene when individuals ignore the rules and disrupt life for others.
“It is right that those responsible are held accountable, and that there are opportunities to help people take positive steps to change their behaviour.”
Cllr Lucy Findlay (Lab, Alphington), the city council’s portfolio holder for city centre and community safety, added: “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community, and we welcome these additional powers to help make that a reality across Exeter. Respect Orders will provide an important tool for tackling persistent anti-social behaviour, both in our city centre and in residential areas.
“Working through our Community Safety Partnership, Safer Exeter, we will collaborate closely with the police, our Community Safety Team and others to ensure these powers are used to their fullest extent, alongside a range of preventative measures, support services and targeted interventions.”
 

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