In October 2014, the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 was introduced across England and Wales. This legislation identified six new tools to tackle anti-social behaviour. One of the tools introduced were the Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs).
PSPOs are intended to deal with a particular nuisance or problem in an area that negatively affects the local community's quality of life by imposing restrictions on certain behaviours.
We can apply a PSPO on any public space within our authority. The definition of public space is wide and includes any place where the public or any section of the public has access to, whether this is by payment, by right or by express or implied permission.
A single PSPO can cover multiple restrictions, such as drinking alcohol on the street, keeping dogs on leads and restricting access on a public right of way. These apply to anyone in an area with a PSPO in place.
Fixed penalty notice
PSPOs can be enforced by Royal Borough community wardens and police officers or any officer designated by us. If you breach a PSPO, you can receive the following penalties:
- A £100 fine on the spot, known as a fixed penalty notice.
- A (level three) fine of up to £1,000 if the charge goes to court.
Existing PSPOs
For a PSPO to be introduced, the proposal must be published for six weeks with no major objections from consultees including residents of Windsor and Maidenhead.
The PSPOs that are currently in place are listed below.