Have your say on a Public Space Protection Order for Kettering

05 May 2022

A public consultation has been launched to seek views on whether a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) should be renewed and extended for a further 3 years.

A PSPO is a power under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, that allows a council to impose restrictions in particular areas to tackle nuisance or problem behaviour, within a defined public area.

The PSPO was originally granted in 2016, covers Kettering town centre and was put in place to prohibit:

• Control of commercial or charity collection or soliciting for money in the street.
• Consumption of alcohol on street.
• Those under 18 in the area 11pm - 6am.
• Driving/ using a car in an anti-social manner.
• Obstructing the highway/or loitering.
• Anti-social parking.
• Unauthorised distribution of printed material/leaflets
• Use of Skateboards, bicycles and scooters.
• Begging on the Street.
• Foul and abusive language.

The current consultation covers whether the PSPO should be renewed and if there should be any amends to Order.

Unfortunately due to its mix of retail, leisure and night-time economy Kettering town centre sees volumes of anti-social behaviour, which is why the PSPO was originally introduced. It is important that we work with and listen to the community, acting accordingly. This is why we have launched this public consultation.Cllr Andy Mercer, the council’s Executive Member for Housing and Community

Once the consultation has closed, all feedback will be analysed and considered before a report is taken to the Executive. In particular, we would like to hear the views of those living and working within the PSPO area, so I really would encourage residents and businesses to have their say.Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of the council

The consultation is open until 24 June 2022 and can be completed via North Northamptonshire’s Citizen Space Hub.