Sutton Council Approves New Public Spaces Protection Order to Combat Anti-Social Behaviour
Sutton Council has approved plans for a new borough-wide Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) designed to tackle a range of anti-social behaviours. The consolidated order will replace 17 existing PSPOs, aiming to simplify enforcement and address persistent issues across the borough.
The new order, which is expected to be implemented by March 2027 with enforcement beginning in April 2027, includes prohibitions on amplified sound, irresponsible dog ownership, anti-social riding of bikes and scooters, barbecues in parks, and unauthorised parking in certain locations. The Strategy and Resources Committee, meeting on Monday, October 5, 2026, authorised the Director of Children's Services to consult on the draft PSPO. The public consultation period will run for 8 weeks, from October 23rd, 2026, to January 11th, 2027, allowing residents to provide feedback on the proposed activities and locations. The council will consider this feedback before finalising the order.
Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of the Council, emphasised the need for a single, simplified order to provide clarity for both residents and enforcement officers. The draft order specifically addresses amplified sound on Sutton High Street and in Beddington Park, areas that have generated numerous complaints.
Addressing Amplified Sound and Other Concerns
The prohibition on amplified sound targets its use in a manner that causes, or is likely to cause, nuisance, annoyance, harassment, alarm, or distress. This includes music from vehicles, busking, street performances, public speaking, and street preaching. While specific decibel limits are not detailed, individuals may be directed by an authorised person to reduce volume, cease use, or surrender equipment. Exceptions are in place for council-authorised events, emergency services, assistive listening devices, political demonstrations, and organised public processions.
During the committee meeting, Councillor Jake Short inquired about the inclusion of specific park areas on maps, requesting Memorial Gardens be added to Grove Park. Angela Killalea, Head of Service - Integrated Support & Safer Communities, confirmed that maps were being developed and this would be considered.
Councillor Dave Tchil raised concerns about kite fighting with abrasive lines, noting its occurrence in other boroughs and potential for it to become an issue in Sutton. Ms Killalea clarified that for such an issue to be included in a PSPO, evidence of persistent anti-social behaviour with a negative impact on residents would be required. She stated this was the first she had heard of the issue in Sutton, implying no current evidence for its inclusion.
Councillor Stephen Kingdom questioned the definition of 'annoyance' concerning cycling. The committee was informed that legal advice suggested focusing the wording on nuisance, harassment, alarm, or distress to target behaviour causing serious disruption rather than minor inconveniences.
Penalties and Enforcement
Violations of the new PSPO will result in the issuance of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs). Following the Crime and Policing Act 2026, the maximum fine for a breach has increased. The draft order proposes that the council can set the FPN level, up to a maximum of £500, with a reduced rate for prompt payment within 14 days. Failure to comply without reasonable excuse is a criminal offence, punishable by a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale (currently £1,000). Enforcement will be a collaborative effort between the Police and Kingdom Enforcement officers.
Ensuring Fairness and Public Awareness
The council is committed to ensuring the new PSPO does not inadvertently criminalise legitimate activities or disproportionately affect certain communities. The draft order includes exceptions for authorised events and activities, and importantly, a full Equalities Impact Assessment (EQIA) will be conducted after the public consultation to ensure proportionality and fairness.
The proposed implementation timetable includes a dedicated period for public awareness from March 3rd to March 31st, 2027, prior to enforcement commencing. This will involve displaying new signage and publicising the order on the council's website. While a detailed pre- and post-implementation education strategy is not fully outlined, the communication and engagement period is intended to inform residents.
Future-Proofing the Order
In anticipation of new anti-social behaviours emerging, Councillor Trish Fivey suggested a clause to cover future issues. It was clarified that multiple PSPOs can be made, and a new order could be sought if a new behaviour becomes apparent.
Further details on the draft PSPO and the consultation process can be found in the Public reports pack for the Strategy and Resources Committee meeting on October 5, 2026. The Agenda frontsheet is also available.