Waltham Forest wants to extend its public space protection order (PSPO), which gives enforcement officers the power to fine people £100 for antisocial behaviour, reports Sebastian Mann, Local Democracy Reporter
Measures to tackle antisocial behaviour and street drinking in Waltham Forest could be extended for a further three years after positive signs.
The council introduced a protection order in 2022 that covers every public space in the borough.
It gives enforcement officers the power to fine people £100 on the spot for problematic street drinking, aggressively begging, or being threatening or insulting.
Since March 2022, some 2,500 fines have been issued to offenders. Street drinking was the worst antisocial offence, accounting for 344 charges.
A further 310 were fined for urinating in a public place, on top of the 306 who were fined for spitting.
Stopping on zig-zag markings outside schools made up the bulk of fines, however, with 1,540 people being handed slapped with a fixed penalty notice (FPN).
The public space protection order (PSPO) is due to end in early September, though the town hall says there is a “strong case” for continuing it through to 2028.
This week, the council launched a lengthy consultation for residents and business owners to share their views on the PSPO. It also wants to hear concerns about any specific types of antisocial behaviour that can be tackled by the order.
Waltham Forest has warned that if the PSPO is not extended, it could lead to an increase in crime and antisocial behaviour.
Though the rate of FPNs may sound high, the town hall says the extra enforcement powers work. Between 2019 and 2022, a combined 1,988 fines were handed out for street drinking and public urination – almost three times the current figures.
Enforcement officers are also encouraged to refer offenders to drug and alcohol rehabilitation or other social services before taking action.
“Our priority will always be intervention wherever possible before formal enforcement action,” the council says.
Antisocial behaviour is a “persistent challenge” in Waltham Forest, according to the town hall.
Last year, 44% of respondents told a council survey they were worried about it, which is 5% above the Londonwide average.
A separate survey from spring 2024 found that one in five residents feels it “strongly impacts their lives”.
Data from the Metropolitan Police shows that it is on the rise, alongside robberies, but the figures are closely tied with periods of warmer weather.
The consultation will remain open until 16th June.
Share your views on the consultation here
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