Public consultation on anti-social behaviour rules

Published: 22 April 2022

Bottle in hands representing anti-social behaviour

Residents are being asked to have a say on the renewal of the district's anti-social behaviour Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) rules.

A consultation on the PSPO is running until Thursday 5 May. Anti-social behaviour covers everything from litter to aggressive dogs, vandalism to noisy neighbours, and public drunkenness to noisy vehicles, but the PSPO focuses on seven specific measures:

·        Control of anti-social alcohol consumption in a public place.

·        No use of intoxicating substances in a public place.

·        No urinating, spitting or defecating in a public place.

·        No begging.

·        Control of anti-social street entertainment.

·        Control of unauthorised street fundraising and marketing.

·        Control of unauthorised camping.

Failure to comply with a PSPO results in a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN), which must be paid within 14 days. Failure to pay a FPN can mean a court prosecution and fine of up to £1,000.

The current PSPO came into force on 21 June 2019 for a period of three years.

Cllr Jenny Hollingsbee, F&HDC Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "The anti-social behaviour PSPO is an important means to tackle street-level anti-social behaviour in the district and we would like to hear what people think of it.

"By identifying and addressing a particular nuisance or problem in a particular area, we are ensuring that public spaces can be safely used and enjoyed by residents and visitors alike."

The consultation has now closed.

Date published: 22 April 2022 (Date updated: 12 December 2022)