Havering Council consults on borough-wide anti-social behaviour order

Havering Council is consulting residents on plans to introduce a borough-wide Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). The proposed order would grant council officers and the Metropolitan Police extended powers to issue on-the-spot fines for a range of anti-social behaviours.

The current Romford PSPO, which allows for £100 fixed penalty notices for specific offences, is due to expire in October 2026. The council is considering replacing it with a new order covering all 18 wards of Havering.

Scope of the proposed order

The proposed order lists several potential prohibitions, including stopping drinking alcohol in public spaces when asked, dog fouling, aggressive or persistent begging, and the anti-social use of bicycles, mopeds, e-scooters or e-bikes. It could also cover groups gathering in a manner causing nuisance, using face coverings to hide identity for anti-social behaviour, urinating or defecating in public, amplified sound causing nuisance, carrying catapults, and feeding wildlife if it causes environmental damage or public health concerns.

Terry Brown, Havering's cabinet member for public protection, stated that while most residents use public spaces responsibly, some individuals cause nuisance and distress. He added, "Anyone found carrying out antisocial behaviour will face strong action in Havering."

If an offender refuses to pay the £100 fixed penalty notice, they could face court proceedings and a potential fine of up to £1,000. The council stated that an Equality Impact Assessment would be conducted before any new policies are implemented to avoid unfairly harming or discriminating against any group.

Public consultation and next steps

The Campaign for Freedom in Everyday Life has expressed criticism of the proposal, with a spokesperson stating it "criminalises everyday life" and disproportionately affects young and homeless people. The campaign described it as "one of the broadest PSPOs we've seen."

Keith Prince, council leader, said the authority wants to hear a "wide range of views to ensure any future decision reflects the experiences and priorities of local communities." The public consultation runs until 23 October 2026. PSPOs can be implemented for a maximum of three years before requiring review and potential extension.