Public space protection order to stop anti-social behaviour in Wellingborough could be extended as consultation launched

Wellingborough was subject to a PSPO in November 2020, which was later renewed for three years in November 2023. Now, North Northants Council (NNC) is looking to renew the order for a further three years until 2029.

Cllr Greg Wilcox, the council’s executive member for communities, said: “Public space protection orders provide councils with tools to help us manage anti-social behaviour, ensuring that town centres are safe for everyone.

"It is important that any order is suitable for each town.

“This consultation is a vital part of this process and I would encourage everyone to get involved and have their say.”

When it was introduced in 2020, 70 per cent of respondents saw urinating and defecating as a problem, as well as 52 per cent noting fly posting, 95 per cent littering, 70 per cent graffiti, 78 per cent unauthorised camping on public land, 78 per cent motor cycle nuisance and 82 per cent spitting.

Recently, Wellingborough had been one of the five towns in north Northamptonshire to submit a bid to become the UK’s next town of culture, however was not one of the 15 announced to be shortlisted, which included Corby.

In May, NNC launched a consultation asking residents for their input to form a ‘masterplan’ for the town after the council decided Wellingborough was the most in need of change and had the ‘strongest opportunity for transformation.’

If extended, the order will allow the council to continue its measures to address behaviours linked to anti-social behaviour such as street drinking, aggressive begging and nuisance behaviour and impose restrictions where necessary.

Council leader Cllr Martin Griffiths said: “We have an ambition for Wellingborough, and all towns and villages across North Northamptonshire, to be a safe and welcoming places. Tools like public space protection orders are an important part of achieving this.”

Those who wish to take part in the consultation can access it via the council’s online consultation hub here until August 10, 2026.

The council says feedback will be reviewed and considered before any final decisions are made on the implementation of the order.