PSPOs work by imposing conditions on the use of the area so that the law-abiding majority can use and enjoy public spaces, safe from anti-social behaviour.

Where can it apply?

A council can make a PSPO on any public space within its own area. The definition of public space is wide and may include any place to which the public has access as of right or by permission.

How are they enforced?

Failure to comply with a PSPO is an offence which could result in a fine of up to £100 in a magistrates court. Police and council officers, and officers authorised by the council, can enforce the conditions of PSPOs and can issue fixed penalty notices of £80 for non-compliance.

What PSPOs are in place?

What do residents say about PSPOs?

As the boroughs' by laws date back to 1976, it is timely to bring them up to date with the new legislation. The council consulted residents in March and April 2015 through a survey to establish residents' views on the council's proposals to up date the borough's by laws and make prohibitions and requirements under a PSPO covering all of the borough's parks and public places. A large majority of survey respondents were in favour of all of the proposed activities being punishable by a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN).

Controlled drinking zone

A controlled drinking zone was introduced by in 2005, this gives police officers the power to stop anyone drinking alcohol if they consider that it is causing a nuisance or distress to others. Police officers can also confiscate open or sealed cans or bottles of alcohol if they think it is likely to be drunk in a public place. The controlled drinking zone has been replaced by similar powers in PSPOs.

The order does not mean that drinking alcohol in public places has been banned. The only people who will be affected are people whose drinking in public places causes nuisance or annoyance to others or are likely to be involved in disorderly behaviour.