Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) are intended to protect local communities' quality of life and safe access to public areas.

If there are problems or a nuisance in a public area which is affecting the local community's quality of life and ability to use public facilities, we can put an order in place to deal with it. The PSPO sets out rules or restrictions designed to make sure that everyone can use and enjoy public spaces, safe from anti-social behaviour. Some examples of the type of restrictions a PSPO might impose include, a ban on consuming alcohol in a defined area, a requirement to keep dogs on leads in a particular part of a public park or the erection of gates to restrict public access for the purpose of reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

PSPOs replace Gating Orders and Dog Control Orders.

Once passed, a PSPO has the force of law. If you ignore it you can face a fixed penalty fine or prosecution.

PSPOs in force in Herefordshire

Following public consultations the following PSPOs came into effect in Herefordshire:

• PSPO for dog control from 27 March 2024 for a period of three years.
• PSPO for alcohol consumption from 1 May 2018 for a period of three years, the order was varied on 3 July 2019.
• PSPO for Garrick Multi-storey Car Park, Hereford from 1 May 2022 for a period of three years.

Appeal process

When making a PSPO we have to comply with all the requirements of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

If you wish to appeal a PSPO you can apply to the High Court within six weeks from the date the order was made.