Council seeks views on changes to anti-social order

A Public Space Protection Order has been in place in Guildford town centre since 2022

A Surrey council is seeking views on changes to a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which could see the order cover a wider area and be extended.

A PSPO was introduced in Guildford town centre in April 2022 as part of efforts to combat anti-social behaviour.

Guildford Borough Council is consulting the public on whether to extend the order for an additional three years and to widen the geographical area it covers.

The council has also proposed amending the prohibited behaviours to be included in the revised PSPO, including restricting alcohol in public spaces and adding extra restrictions to rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour.

Under the proposals, Black Cat Alley, near the bottom of Farnham Road - where there have been reports of anti-social behaviour - would be included in the PSPO.

Merel Rehorst-Smith, lead councillor for regulatory and democratic Services, said the council wanted to know "how successful" the current PSPO had been.

"By listening to our residents, businesses and visitors, we will be able to decide if changes to our current PSPO are needed," she said.

The survey closes at midnight on 25 February.

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