Thousands Respond to Ealing Abortion Clinic 'Buffer Zone' Consultation

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Looking likely Council will vote for PSPO which could be introduced immediately

Thousands of people have responded to a consultation over whether to introduce a so called ' buffer zone ' around an Ealing abortion clinic.

There were 2,181 online survey responses and more than 1500 emails and letters about the proposals for the Marie Stopes clinic on Mattock Lane.   

The behaviours outside the clinic were originally highlighted through a petition organised by local group 'Sister Supporter' which 3,593 signed and which was submitted to the council in July 2017.   

Before reaching a decision, the council’s cabinet will consider the evidence gathered, over several months, about activity outside the clinic.  It will also review the views of people who took part in a public consultation.   

The report prepared by the council’s community safety team recommends that a safe zone ( Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) be introduced. The recommendations in the report have been put forward to address certain behaviours by members of Pro-Life and Pro-Choice groups.

Councillors must be satisfied that it is both necessary and would provide a proportionate response to the issues that have been identified which involve intimidation, harassment and distress. 

Councillors will consider whether the need to provide safe, unimpeded access to the clinic in the safe zone can be balanced with the Equality Act and the European Convention on Human Rights.   

Councillors will need to consider if the behaviours have had a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the area or it is likely that such activities will continue and will have detrimental effect.

If members agree that a PSPO is necessary, the safe zone can be introduced immediately. If a PSPO is introduced, anyone who breaches the order would be committing a criminal offence and can be fined or prosecuted under the law.

Ealing Council cabinet members will decide on Tuesday, 10 April 2018.

3 April 2018