Mitcham street drinking PSPO expires with no replacement plan

Mitcham town centre has lost legal powers to curb street drinking after Merton Council allowed its Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to expire on 25 July 2025. The council confirmed it has no replacement plan, leaving police unable to confiscate open alcohol in public spaces.

Ali Shabaan, owner of Tag Elezz Cafe near Mitcham’s Jubilee Clock Tower, said police are called to the area 3-4 times every week. He described smashed windows, public urination and violent incidents linked to street drinking. Shabaan told the Local Democracy Reporting Service he is considering leaving the town after more than a decade running the café.

Council removes signs as review continues

Merton Council introduced the borough-wide PSPO in July 2023. It gave police powers to confiscate alcohol from individuals in public spaces, including Mitcham town centre. The council is now removing signs related to the expired order while it reviews options for a new one.

A council spokesperson said wardens continue to patrol Mitcham town centre weekly, including evenings and weekends. The council also operates CCTV and works with police to respond to anti-social behaviour. It said it considers each report individually and offers support for alcohol treatment before taking enforcement action.

Wilson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service the council should have renewed the PSPO while reviewing alternatives. She said street drinking remains a problem in Mitcham and is increasing near Raynes Park station. Wilson also suggested the council should consider protection orders for other issues, such as nitrous oxide use.

Residents report daily disruption

Shabaan said street drinkers regularly ask for empty glasses to use for their drinks. When he refuses, they smash his café windows. He said incidents have worsened in recent years, with drinkers often passed out or vomiting in public. A former drinker showed the Local Democracy Reporting Service footage of alcohol-related sexual behaviour in Clocktower Square after dark.

Victor Gough, a lifelong Mitcham resident and Street Pastor, said he is worried about the impact of the expired PSPO. He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service he has seen a decline in investment in Mitcham compared to nearby Wimbledon. Gough said he supports vulnerable people in the town centre and believes Mitcham has a strong sense of community.

What happens next

Merton Council said it is gathering evidence and reviewing PSPO options as part of a wider review. It has not set a timeline for a decision on whether to introduce a new order. The council said it is investing in Mitcham town centre, including improved lighting, greening and community events at the bandstand.