Camden Council in north London has approved a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) that will allow police and council officers to fine street drinkers up to £100 for alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour. The order, effective from July, targets issues like loud music and public urination, excluding Hampstead Heath.
A report by the Campaign for Freedom in Everyday Life reveals that one in five local councils in England and Wales have banned swearing under Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), up from one in 20 in 2022. The research found 271 of 297 councils (91%) have at least one PSPO, with 1,268 new orders introduced containing up to 30 restrictions each. Penalties reached an all-time high with 25,000 fines issued in 2025, with 75% issued by private enforcement companies paid per fine.
A new report reveals one in five local councils in England and Wales have banned swearing under Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), up from one in 20 in 2022. The Campaign for Freedom in Everyday Life found 91% of responding councils have PSPOs, with over 1,000 new laws introduced containing restrictions on everyday activities. Private enforcement companies issued 25,000 fines in 2025, with 75% of penalties issued by firms paid per fine.
