Rules aimed at protecting wildlife, tackling anti-social behaviour and keeping dogs under control in Richmond borough are set to be extended until 2029.

Richmond Council has launched a consultation on a three-year extension of the borough-wide Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) tackling anti-social behaviour and dog control issues this month.

Multiple activities are restricted by the PSPO aimed at anti-social behaviour, including drinking alcohol after being asked to stop by an authorised person and flying drones or planting trees without prior consent in public spaces.

It also prohibits urinating or defecating in all open spaces and smoking cigarettes or illegal drugs in parks and open spaces.

People are banned from lighting a fire or barbecue, releasing a sky lantern and setting off fireworks without council permission in all parks and open spaces under the order. Feeding birds or animals in a way which is likely to cause nuisance or attract vermin in public spaces is also restricted.

The PSPO for dog control requires owners to remove dog poo, put their dogs on a lead in certain places, keep their dogs out of specified areas and only take a maximum of four dogs on a walk at any one time, unless they are licensed to walk more.

The council's regulatory committee approved plans to consult on extending the PSPOs for another three years on Tuesday (February 3). The PSPOs have been in place since 2017 and are due to expire on September 21.

Matt Almond, the council's interim park service manager, told the meeting the PSPOs are "key tools" used by the council to tackle anti-social behaviour and encourage dog control.

advertisement

A person caught breaching a PSPO faces a fine of up to £80, slashed to £50 if paid in 10 days. They may be prosecuted if they do not pay, which can lead to a fine of up to £1,000 or £500 if the offence concerns alcohol consumption.

A total of 1,286 warnings have been issued to people breaking the rules in Richmond since 2023. The council has dished out 388 fines and made six successful prosecutions in the same period.

Mr Almond said: "They allow us to address persistent anti-social behaviour that is having, or is likely to have, a detrimental effect on individuals and communities. The council's enforcement of PSPOs prioritises education and advice, formal action used only where it's necessary."

The council will consult on the extension of the PSPOs until March 26. It will use this feedback to finalise the PSPOs, before voting on whether to extend them later this year.