Public spaces protection orders

We can put public spaces protection orders (PSPOs) in place to help make sure public spaces can be enjoyed free from antisocial behaviour.

We can use PSPOs to control behaviour that is either having, or is likely to have, a harmful effect on a local community’s quality of life.

PSPOs put conditions or restrictions on an area which apply to everyone. They can be enforced by the police, council enforcement officers or any other authorised officers.

Town centre PSPOs

There are 2 PSPOs in the town centre - one prevents cycling between 9am and 6pm and the other prevents alcohol consumption and ball games. 

The PSPOs originally came into effect on 5 August 2019. In August 2022 we consulted on extending the PSPOs and agreed to extend them for another 3 years. At the end of the 3 years, we will review their impact and decide if any changes or extensions are needed.

We consulted local businesses and residents before they were introduced in 2019 and extended in 2022.

You can view copies of the PSPOs:

• cycling PSPO (pdf)
• alcohol and no ball games PSPO (pdf)

You can view maps of the areas that are covered by the PSPOs:

• map of the cycling boundary (pdf)
• map of the alcohol and no ball games boundary (pdf)

The no ball games area does not include table tennis in Market Square - this will continue to be allowed and is not included in the order.

Anyone who breaches the orders can be fined or prosecuted.