Enforcement powers for anti-social drinking in Durham city centre

Background information

PSPOs are put in place to make sure that people can use and enjoy public spaces safely away from anti-social behaviour. We have the power to make a PSPO under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

Our Cabinet has agreed to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in the city to tackle behaviours including begging, urinating in the street and the use of intoxicating substances.

The proposed measures have already received strong support from residents and businesses in Durham.

A consultation held earlier in 2024 received more than 400 responses, with 83 per cent of people either strongly supporting or supporting plans for a PSPO to be introduced to control begging, and almost 90 per cent backing a PSPO specifically to control urinating and the use of intoxicating substances.

The introduction of a PSPO has also been welcomed by Durham Constabulary, whose crime and anti-social behaviour statistics further support the view that a PSPO would help to control such behaviours.

Anyone breaching the PSPO will be issued with a £100 fine. However, an initial period of engagement will follow the introduction of the order before any fines are issued.

Map of the PSPO area

What the PSPO means

The new legislation will restrict the consumption of alcohol within a defined area of the city centre (see map.) Stop aggressive and nuisance begging and stop the use of intoxicating substances (drugs) in the city centre. 

Enforcement and penalties

Authorised people (,police officers and Neighbourhood wardens) have the power to issue a fine (fixed penalty notice) if you do not follow the PSPO. If the fine is not paid, you will be taken to court. The maximum fine is £1,000. There will be a period of education before enforcement begins.