Council launches new powers to tackle anti-social behaviour

New Public Spaces Protection Order launches today across all of Reading

A clampdown on anti-social behaviour in Reading is launched today with the introduction of a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO).

Introduced in partnership by Reading Borough Council and Thames Valley Police, the order provides additional powers to tackle the specific anti-social behaviours that residents said they wanted to see addressed.

Dog control, dog fouling, alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, aggressive begging and anti-social use of e-bikes and e-scooters will all be targeted.

Order gives police and council additional powers to tackle anti-social behaviours

The PSPO is a preventative measure. It lets officers ask people to stop before a breach occurs, but if someone continues after being asked to stop they can be issued a fixed penalty notice.

This would be a fine of £100. This is an alternative to prosecution, which carries a maximum fine of £1,000.

The five conditions being enforced

On-street begging (TVP-led)

A person must not engage in begging in any public place in a manner that is reasonably perceived to be aggressive, intimidating, or causes harassment, alarm or distress.

Alcohol-related anti-social behaviour (TVP-led)

If an officer asks a person to stop drinking or hand over their alcohol, the person must do so and is not allowed to refuse.

Dog fouling (council-led)

Anyone in charge of a dog must pick up after it. Not noticing the mess or not having a bag is not an excuse.

Dog control (council-led)

Anyone in charge of a dog must put it on a lead if an authorised officer tells them to. Not doing so is an offence.

Anti-social use of e-scooters and e-bikes (TVP-led)

Anyone riding an electric scooter or electric bike must not ride in a dangerous or anti‑social way. If they do, action can be taken, and they must get off of the vehicle if a police officer tells them to.

Comments on the changes

Karen Rowland, Chair – Community Safety Partnership and Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, said:

“We know from the consultation which took place last summer that residents are understandably demanding action on things like street drinking, dog fouling and the dangerous use of electric bikes and scooters. The introduction of the PSPO today hands additional powers to both the Council and our police colleagues.

“It is a really positive step for residents which hopefully provides some reassurance that we have heard their concerns and are providing Officers the tools needed to act on them. In simple terms, this is about making Reading a more enjoyable place for everyone.

“We’ve already taken tough action over the last six months to clamp down on mindless littering and fly tipping. Our new trial Environmental Enforcement Partnership has seen over 1,300 fines handed out for these offences that unnecessarily and selfishly impact the enjoyment of our open spaces for others. This PSPO is yet another way we can deter the minority from ruining it for everyone else.

“I want to reassure the responsible users of legal e-bikes that we fully support their use of sustainable, active travel around the town for the sake of the environment, and it is only those who use electric-powered cycles or scooters in a manner that causes distress or alarm to others who will feel the effect of this PSPO.”

Inspector James Tribe from Thames Valley Police said:

“The introduction of this Public Spaces Protection Order in Reading will be a valuable addition to our efforts to keep the borough safe. It enhances and complements the powers already available to my officers, enabling a more agile response to persistent anti‑social behaviour that impacts our communities. By working alongside existing legislation, the PSPO strengthens our ability to intervene early and ensure that our public spaces remain safe and welcoming for everyone.”