19/01/2025: Breckland Council launches public consultation on proposed Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Dereham

Breckland Council has launched a public consultation on a proposed new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Dereham town centre, following approval from the council's Cabinet. The proposal forms part of a wider response to concerns raised by the local community about anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the town. 

The consultation invites residents and businesses to help shape the proposed order by setting out which behaviours and activities they would like to see restricted in the town centre, as well as the area the PSPO should cover. 

PSPOs typically address issues such as street drinking, vehicle based and other forms of ASB. If introduced, the order could be enforced by police officers or authorised council officers. Failure to comply with the restrictions would be a criminal offence and could result in an on-the-spot fine or prosecution. 

Cllr Tristan Ashby, Breckland Council's Executive Member for Health and Communities, said: "The introduction of a PSPO would give the police and the council more powers to tackle unwanted activity in Dereham. We know people in the town have real concerns about anti-social behaviour, and we are committed to working with the community and our partners to address this. This consultation is a key opportunity for residents to have their say on whether a PSPO should be introduced and, if so, what it should include. I would strongly encourage people to take part and share their views." 

Once the consultation closes on 22 February 2026, all responses will be carefully considered. Councillors will then decide whether to formally adopt the PSPO and agree its final details. 

The proposed PSPO complements a new multi-agency task force recently announced by the council. The task force brings together partners including the NHS, police, mental health service providers and local councils to strengthen communication, collaboration and joint action in Dereham. 

To have your say,visit the consultation webpage.

If you are unable to complete the consultation online, paper copies are available at the council's Dereham office and at Dereham library.