COLCHESTER Council’s plans to implement a public space protection order are proving to be as divisive.

But even the authority’s most vocal detractors would agree the council faces a difficult decision.

Complaints over the behaviour of beggars and drinkers have become the subject of “a lot” of complaints.

Yet no council wants to be seen as draconian by targeting the most vulnerable people in our society.

So what do you do?

Roger Morris, Bishop of Colchester, rightly says laws are already in place to stop begging, under an 1824 Act.

The Act gives the police the power to disperse persistent beggars.

A public space protection order would, however, grant those powers to council staff.

But presumably it will simply move them on to another part of town.

Protecting public space is one thing, but is there enough protection for the vulnerable people being moved on?

The middle ground would be to create somewhere in the town centre where beggars, homeless people and rough sleepers can congregate and get support.

It would be difficult for anyone to complain over the use of a public space protection order if there was more support available.

Of course, those sort of plans do not emerge overnight. These things take time.

To council is consulting on its public space protection order plans.

Bishop Roger has had a say. If you feel strongly, make sure you do the same.