Public Space Protection Orders and dog control

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) are part of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. They specify an area where activities are taking place that are detrimental to the local community’s quality of life.

PSPOs impose conditions or restrictions on people using that area, such as banning alcohol or putting up gates. As a council, we can create a PSPO if certain activities are believed to be detrimental to the local community and the negative impact makes the restrictions reasonable. PSPOs replace Gating Orders under section 129A of the Highways Act 1980. 

Breach of a PSPO may be a criminal offence punishable by fixed penalty notice or prosecution. 

Active PSPOs
There are a number of active PSPOs in Tamworth which have been agreed following due process and consultation:

Dog control PSPOs

Most dog owners are responsible and caring but the issue of dog fouling is consistently raised by members of the public. For that reason, PSPOs are also in place in parts of Tamworth to tackle dog-related complaints.

These make it easier for us to deal with irresponsible dog owners quickly and efficiently and help to encourage responsible dog ownership. It is only in formal play areas and specific locations where dogs must be on a lead. This means we support responsible dog ownership in public spaces, while acknowledging dogs need to roam free under the control of their owners.

You can read more about Public Space Protection Orders in this guidance from the Local Government Association.

If you have any concerns or comments about a PSPO, please email communitysafety@tamworth.gov.uk, call us on 01827 709709, or get in touch via the webchat.