PLANS to impose an order in the town centre to reduce anti-social behaviour could criminalise the artistic endeavours of pavement poet Danny Rowland.

The wording of the draft proposal for a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), currently being consulted on, specifically prohibits 'marking or chalking'' pavements without permission from the council.

It would also prevent anyone consuming alcohol in the commercial town centre with the exceptions of licensed premises, along with begging, street trading or aggressive charity collecting, known as 'chugging'.

Danny regularly scrawls on the pavements of Regent Street in colourful chalk, and has previously been threatened with an anti-social behaviour order.

If imposed, the PSPO could last three years and would carry on the spot fines of up to £100, rising to £1,000 if the case is taken to court.

Talks are also underway to compile a similar order which could encompass the entire borough.

Danny said the restrictions would be an assault on otherwise lawful activities.

"Personally I find this worrying as what it effectively does is criminalise these activities via the back door," he said.

"Creating a situation whereby Swindon Borough Council can have people arrested and criminalised for carrying out what are otherwise perfectly lawful activities. Including other forms of busking besides my poetry, which according to the wording of this draft proposal could result in buskers of all varieties being criminalised for putting themselves in a position where they can receive money. Whether that be by voluntary donation, or a recommended donation in exchange for goods.

"It feels like they all brought together all things they get complaints about and lumped them all together. I can't see anybody complaining about trying to stop the street drinkers, but they have amended on restrictions on chalking without anyone noticing.

"Given all the work I and other artistically minded buskers have put into bringing more culture to the street of Swindon, it would be a shame to see this pushed through."

Coun Emma Faramarzi, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing and public safety, said: “A PSPO will focus on nuisances and problems that have a negative impact on people using the town centre.

“We want the town centre to be a safe, welcoming place and this order will act as a deterrent to those who are intent on spoiling that, so I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the consultation survey."

The PSPO consultation is at www.swindon-csp.org.uk where there are details of the proposed order and a short survey. The consultation expires on October 31.

Anyone requiring a paper copy of the survey should call the Swindon Community Safety Partnership on 01793 466506.