Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) - overview
Consultation closed: Friday, 17 November 2023
Consultation opened: Thursday, 24 August 2023
A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) can deal with persistent and unreasonable nuisances and anti-social behaviour that has a negative effect on the quality of life for the local community in a particular area. PSPOs can help to make Central Bedfordshire a better and safer place to live.
We currently have a number of PSPOs, which have been in place since May 2021, and the orders include dog control and alcohol related anti-social behaviour (ASB) in public places. We have to review these by 2024, and we want your views before we decide what changes to make.
Legally, we must have evidence to show the need for an order. So, we will be talking to our town and parish councils to find out whether they feel that the existing orders are working, and whether they feel there are other locations which could also benefit from an order.
PSPOs are usually welcomed by the community, as they are a way of stopping persistent problem behaviour. So, this consultation is also an opportunity for the public to tell us about any locations that they feel should also be included in the PSPOs. The feedback we receive during this consultation can form part of the evidence we need to implement an Order and keep Central Bedfordshire a great place to live and work.
The orders gives the police and specific council officers additional powers to tackle on-street drinking where it is having a negative impact on the area. In terms of dog control powers, this is through authorised officers, those who receive the training – predominantly council officers but can extend to park wardens/rangers, dog wardens etc. A breach of a PSPO can lead to a fine of up to £1000.