Decision details

RESOLVED:

That the Cabinet:

1)    Agree to review the current PSPO 2023 and approve the draft for consultation;

2)    Note the consultation process proposed;

3)    Agree to receive the updated final version of the PSPO 2025 in April 2025 following consultation, for consideration and approval.

Reasons for decision

Cabinet considered a report to consider removing or amending specific prohibitions in the current Public Spaces Protection Order 2023 relating town centres and in particular amplification, the placing of tables, signage or similar effects and also street trading and leaflet distribution.

The Cabinet Member for Community & Environment mentioned that some of the existing prohibitions had faced legal challenges, and the strong advice from the Council indicated that defending these challenges would be difficult. As a result, it was proposed that a consultation be conducted to amend the existing Public Spaces Protection Order. However, it was made clear by the Cabinet Member that the remainder of the Order, particularly the prohibitions on amplified equipment in green spaces, would remain in place.

Cabinet agreed to the consultation and to receive a further report back following this to inform any determinations on an updated PSPO.

Alternative options considered and rejected

Cabinet could have not consulted on the proposed changes or amended them before consultation. Cabinet also noted the Council's other options to manage anti-social behaviour generally were limited to available enforcement legislation, whilst also noting that police resources were also limited.