Council approves new three-year plan to tackle anti-social behaviour

PSPOs are used to tackle public nuisance issues or problems that have a negative impact on residents' quality of life in council-owned parks and public spaces, by imposing conditions on the use of the area. They enable residents and visitors to use and enjoy public spaces, safe from anti-social behaviour. 

The consultation, which ran between 1 May and 16 June, received more than 120 responses. Most respondents felt the council's approach to PSPOs was clear and 69 per cent felt that the draft PSPO covered or partly covered the major anti-social behaviour in their area.

The new PSPO for 2023-26, which will come into effect from 5pm Friday 4 August, will retain the following prohibitions:

• alcohol and drug misuse in public spaces   
• idling vehicles   
• use of drones in public spaces   
• urinating, defecating and spitting   
• being in charge of more than four dogs (six with a valid licence)   
• unauthorised encampments   
• begging. 

With the addition of new orders, including: 

• smoking/vaping within children's play areas   
• dogs within children's play areas   
• driving e-vehicles or motor vehicles over footways   
• use of amplification equipment in town centres (Uxbridge, Hayes and Ruislip)   
• placing of tables/stands/signage in town centres (Uxbridge, Hayes and Ruislip)   
• financial agreements in the street in town centres (Uxbridge, Hayes and Ruislip)   
• street trading and leaflet distribution without proper consent 
• car meets/street racing 
• use of amplification equipment at Ruislip Lido and other green spaces.  

Police, council officers and officers authorised by the council can enforce the conditions of PSPOs, and failure to comply is an offence and could result in a fine of up to £1,000 in a magistrates' court.    

Cllr Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Residents' Services, said: "The new 2023-26 orders address concerns raised by residents during the consultation and will help us maintain safe and strong communities that continue to put them first.  

"PSPOs are there to help deal with the few who ignore the rules, cause harm and are a nuisance in the community and will hopefully act as a deterrent." 

To report anti-social behaviour and to find out more about Public Space Protection Orders, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/pspo.