Visitors and those who live or work in Banbury are set for a safer, more pleasant experience as new powers to tackle antisocial behaviour are rolled out.
Published: Tuesday, 4th March 2025
On Monday, 3 March, Cherwell District Council’s executive approved a new public spaces protection order (PSPO) for the town centre and People’s Park.
Data presented to the executive showed that in 2024, there were 764 recorded antisocial behaviour and public order offences in Banbury town centre, issues that do not always meet the threshold for formal enforcement action but which cause feelings of distress to passers-by.
With the PSPO, the council and police can address and deter antisocial behaviour using additional powers to impose fines for a range of activities, which include aggressive begging, nuisance, street drinking, and actions that cause alarm or distress.
Councillor Rob Parkinson, Portfolio Holder for Safer Communities, said: “Banbury is a wonderful town with a relatively low crime rate, but nevertheless when antisocial behaviour takes place it can have a serious effect on passers–by who report feeling upset and unsettled. This PSPO demonstrates our commitment to a safe and welcoming atmosphere in Banbury.
“The new powers will allow our community wardens and police colleagues to deter poor behaviour and, if necessary, take enforcement action. The PSPO also acts as a deterrent which will help raise awareness of the high standards that we all expect of care and consideration for each other. We believe this will make Banbury a much more welcoming place for residents, visitors and businesses alike.”
The decision was informed by a 2024 consultation in which 93 per cent of respondents agreed that Cherwell should use a PSPO to prohibit antisocial behaviour.
The council will initially operate the PSPO by issuing warnings and providing information, encouraging people taking part in the restricted behaviours to access support services. The council and police will use the formal powers the PSPO gives them in cases of repeated breaches.
The order will last up to three years, with a review in the third year and an option to renew.
Signs identifying the area covered by the order and reminding people of the prohibited behaviours will be installed at prominent locations around the town centre in the coming weeks.