Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) were introduced in Surrey Heath in 2017. They are designed to deal with a particular nuisance or problem in a specific public space or area that has a negative effect on the quality of life of the local community.
These orders enable the council and Surrey Police to deal effectively with low level anti-social behaviour that relates to issues including alcohol control zones, begging in Camberley town centre, and responsible dog ownership.
The council is proposing to extend the existing orders for a further three-year period until October 2029.
Key elements to the proposed PSPOs include:
- Borough‑wide bans of nitrous oxide through local PSPOs have been removed as nitrous oxide is now a Class C drug under national law, and therefore enforcement is now covered by criminal legislation.
- Tents may not be put up in Camberley town centre and surrounding areas unless the landowner has given permission. Street begging in Camberley town centre will continue to be prohibited.
- Catapults, slingshots, and associated projectiles (such as ball bearings) will be confiscated if being used irresponsibly in public spaces within Surrey Heath.
- The following dog-related rules will stay the same:
- dog fouling areas
- areas where dogs must be kept on a lead
- areas where dogs are not allowed
- seasonal requirements for dogs to be kept on leads during the bird nesting season.
- Alcohol-related nuisance – the following will apply to Camberley town centre and the Old Dean shopping parade. The coverage of Southcote Park, Chobham Road Recreation Ground, Frimley Lodge Park, Heather Ridge Arcade, Heatherside Recreation Ground, London Road Recreation Ground, and Southwell Park Road to Surrey Avenue, Camberley is to be withdrawn.
- If drinking alcohol in a public place is causing nuisance or disorder, the Police may ask people to stop drinking, and hand over any containers believed to contain alcohol. People are required to comply if asked to do so.
Surrey Heath Portfolio Holder for Built Environment and Regulation Cllr Alan Ashbery said: “We know anti-social behaviour is an issue which residents are concerned about, and the existing Public Sector Protection Orders have been used very effectively across the borough.
“They are an important tool in dealing with low level anti-social behaviour in our communities, and we are keen to hear your views on our plans to extend them for another three years – including the changes we are proposing in response to differing issues faced across the borough.”
Tell us what you think – for more information visit the PSPO consultation webpage or email any questions or comments to: PSPO.Consultation2026@surreyheath.gov.uk
The consultation period runs from 11 May to 1 June 2026.