Residents across Sunderland are being invited to help shape the future of the city’s Public Spaces Protection Order, which gives powers to tackle anti-social behaviour and environmental issues affecting local communities.
The citywide PSPO was first introduced in 2019 and gives Sunderland City Council enforcement powers to address a range of behaviours that can negatively impact residents' quality of life. These include public drinking, dog control, nuisance bikes and scooters, car cruising, environmental offences and other anti-social behaviour in public spaces.
The current Order came into effect in 2024 and is now being reviewed ahead of its renewal. As part of the review, residents are being asked whether the existing restrictions remain relevant and effective, and whether they should be retained, strengthened, amended or removed.
Under the current PSPO, individuals who fail to comply with the restrictions contained within the Order may be issued with a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice.
Councillor Bill Blackett, Sunderland City Council's Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Enforcement, said:
"We know the impact anti-social behaviour can have on our communities. It is one of the issues most frequently raised by residents and remains a key priority for the Council and our partners.
"The Public Spaces Protection Order provides important powers to help address behaviours that can make people feel unsafe, damage local environments and affect people's enjoyment of public spaces. It is important that these powers remain effective and reflect the issues that matter most to our residents.
"This consultation is an opportunity for people to tell us whether the current measures are working and whether there are any changes they would like us to consider. I would encourage anyone with an interest in their local community to take part and have their say."
Residents have until Sunday 15 November 2026 to complete the consultation by visiting:
Have Your Say Today - Sunderland's Public Spaces Protection Order - Commonplace
The feedback received will help inform the Council's decision on the future of the PSPO and ensure that the powers available continue to support safer, cleaner and more welcoming neighbourhoods across Sunderland.
