Man stabbed on Soho Road hours after new crackdown introduced

A Public Space Protection Order has been introduced to cover the Soho Road area

A man was stabbed and seriously injured hours after a new behaviour crackdown was launched in the area. West Midlands Police were called by paramedics to Holliday Road, off Soho Road in Handsworth, at 6.30am yesterday, Tuesday, October 1, where they found the 47-year-old victim.

He was taken to hospital. A cordon was placed around pavement outside Handsworth Library near the junction with Thornhill Road.

Hours later, police, members of Soho Road BID and council officials gathered at the spot, metres from a grey evidence tent, to mark the introduction of a Public Space Protection Order which will cover Lozells, East Handsworth and Soho.

READ MORE: Soho Road probe as man ‘seriously injured’ in Handsworth street stabbing

The PSPO tackles four areas of concern including groups causing anti-social behaviour, those who are under the influence of intoxicating substances or alcohol while in a public place, obstructing footpaths or using bus shelters inappropriately. Breaking an order is a criminal offence, which can result in a fine of £80 or prosecution.

Soho BID wrote: "After nearly three years of hard work, relentless advocacy, and collaboration, the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) for the Soho Road BID area and the wider Handsworth vicinity has officially gone live today, October 1, 2024. The Soho Road BID team has tirelessly rallied support from local stakeholders, engaged with businesses, and worked closely with authorities to address the pressing issues affecting our neighbourhood.

"This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a safer, more vibrant environment for all residents, businesses, and visitors. The PSPO represents a collective effort to combat anti-social behaviour and reinforces our determination to foster a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can thrive.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported this initiative and look forward to seeing positive changes in our neighbourhood."

In March, when the order was being discussed Coun Rob Pocock said there were two strong benefits of the initiative - the first of which was the well-being benefit to residents who felt more was being done to deal with issues of yob behaviour.

He added: “Concerns about anti-social behaviour have negative economic effects because people don’t go out and don’t go to the shops. There’s also an initiative within the PSPO to provide help and support for individuals who may be having trouble with drugs, addictive behaviour and alcohol so this is not a punitive initiative by any means - it’s a way in which support can be provided.”