People across Plymouth are being invited to have their say on the future of a city-wide order designed to tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.
Plymouth City Council has launched a consultation on whether to extend the current Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for a further three years when it expires in October 2026.
The PSPO, first introduced in 2020 and renewed in 2023, gives authorised officers powers to help prevent alcohol-related disorder in public spaces. This includes asking individuals to stop drinking alcohol and surrender alcohol if it is believed it may contribute to anti-social behaviour.
The Council is now seeking views from residents, businesses, partners and organisations on how well the order is working and whether it should continue.
The consultation asks for feedback on:
- how effective the current PSPO is
- the extent to which people feel affected by or concerned about alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour
- whether the PSPO should be extended for a further three years, and if so, whether it should remain in its current format
The PSPO applies across the whole city and is intended to address alcohol-related anti-social behaviour wherever it occurs. It is not aimed at any specific group or community.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Community Safety, said: “Alcohol-related anti-social behaviour can have a real impact on people’s day-to-day lives, from making residents feel uneasy in their own neighbourhoods to affecting businesses and public spaces that should be welcoming to everyone. This order has helped us respond to those issues, but it’s important we take stock and listen.
“We want to understand people’s experiences, whether they feel safer, and what more we can do. I’d encourage anyone who lives, works or spends time in Plymouth to share their views and help shape what happens next.”
Feedback gathered during the consultation will help inform a decision on whether to renew the order beyond October 2026.
People can take part in the consultation by visiting here. The deadline for feedback is 21 June 2026.
