Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has approved a strengthened Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) covering 211 parks and open spaces across the borough for a further three years. The measure was approved by the Licensing and Public Protection Committee and will tackle intimidating behaviour, verbal abuse, threats of violence and the misuse of off-road motorbikes and quad bikes.
The order will also restrict unauthorised fires and barbecues, while keeping existing controls on dog fouling, dog control and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour. A key change restricts the number of dogs one person can walk at any one time from six to four.
Public Support for Measures
The tougher approach follows a 12-week public consultation in which 83 per cent of respondents backed renewing the order. Popular locations including Brampton Park, Kidsgrove Memorial Gardens, Queens Gardens, Silverdale Cemetery and Station Walks are among the 211 areas protected.
Councillor Ben Simpson, Cabinet member for Waste, Recycling and Green Spaces, said: "Our parks belong to everyone, not just the selfish minority who think they can behave however they like. Families should be able to enjoy our parks, children should be able to play safely and residents should be able to walk their dogs or enjoy our beautiful green spaces without facing intimidation, abuse or anti-social behaviour. Those who refuse to behave appropriately should expect action against them."
Stronger Penalties Ahead
The strengthened order will replace the existing PSPO when it expires in November 2026. The Crime and Policing Act 2026 is expected to increase the maximum fixed penalty for breaching a PSPO to £500, subject to Cabinet approving the adoption of the relevant powers in November.