Richmond Council is preparing to launch a seven-week public consultation on extending two Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) designed to combat anti-social behaviour and regulate dog control across the borough. The current orders are set to expire in September 2026.
The Regulatory Committee met on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, to consider proposals for the extension. Councillors were asked to approve revised draft PSPOs for both anti-social activity and dog control for public consultation, which is scheduled to begin on February 4, 2026, and conclude on March 26, 2026.
Matt Ormond, Interim Park Service Manager, presented the report, explaining that PSPOs are a crucial tool under the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, empowering local authorities to address persistent anti-social behaviour that has, or is likely to have, a detrimental effect on individuals and communities. The specific types of behaviour and dog control measures covered are detailed in the revised draft orders, available for review in Appendix 1a - draft PSPO ASB Renewal 2026 Final and Appendix 1b - draft PSPO Dog Control Renewal 2026 Final.
The council's approach to enforcing PSPOs prioritises education and advice, with formal action reserved for persistent issues. Since the orders were last extended in September 2023, the Parks Patrol contractor has issued 1,286 advisories or warnings, directed 448 individuals to leave specific areas, and issued 388 fixed penalty notices, leading to six prosecutions. This data highlights a clear emphasis on promoting positive behaviour before resorting to sanctions.
During the meeting, councillors sought to understand the effectiveness of the current orders. While the council can compare figures from the current period with previous ones, potentially covering the last three to six years, comprehensive trend data stretching back to the PSPO's inception was noted as potentially unavailable. Councillors expressed a desire for trend data to assess whether issues are escalating or diminishing over time.
Discussions also revealed that the consultation will explore the scope of the orders. One councillor, recalling a personal experience of being attacked by a dog, questioned whether the current PSPOs adequately cover areas beyond public parks, such as back alleys and housing estates. Mr. Ormond confirmed that the public feedback would be instrumental in determining if the orders should be extended to other council-managed areas.
Furthermore, specific clauses within the draft orders, including the control of model aircraft and drones, and potential restrictions on fireworks and sky lanterns, were highlighted. Councillors emphasised that public feedback would be crucial in deciding if any amendments to these draft orders are necessary.
Following the consultation period, which concludes on March 26, 2026, a further report will be presented to the Regulatory Committee and subsequently to the Full Council. This report will outline the consultation findings and any recommendations for amending the PSPOs. The Executive Director of Resident Services has been delegated the authority to finalise and publish the consultation documentation. The subsequent report is expected later in the year.
