Plans to extend Ashton’s Public Space Protection Order

PEOPLE are being asked for their views on plans to extend Ashton’s Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

The existing order, which is due to expire, was put in place in 2022 to build on existing community safety work partnership between Tameside Council and police and provide stronger enforcement powers to help address concerns about crime and antisocial behaviour in the town centre and make the area safer.

The council is proposing to extend the order for a further three years to help keep the area safe and welcoming for everyone and is inviting feedback from residents, businesses, the police and other stakeholders.

Under the order - which covers the retail centre of Ashton but also goes beyond to cover potential gathering points such as Ashton Moss Retail Park, the memorial gardens, and the areas around the Parish Church, Asda and St Peter’s - the following activities are banned:

• Consumption of alcohol.
• Consumption of intoxicating substances.
• Discarding a hypodermic needle or syringe.
• Urinating or defecating outside of a legitimate toilet facility.
• Other activities believed to pose a health and safety risk, including obstructing public spaces and erecting tents or other temporary structures.

Failure to comply to the order without reasonable excuse, could lead to offenders receiving a fixed penalty notice or a fine of up to £1000.

Tameside Council Executive Member for Town Centres, Transport and Connectivity Cllr Stephen Homer said “We’re keen to listen to views from residents, businesses, and community representatives to help understand impact the current PSPO has had and inform the decision on its extension. Police and other key stakeholders have been engaged, and supporting data on enforcement will also be included in the decision making process.

“As we continue to grow and develop our town centre offer in Ashton, tackling anti-social behaviour remains a top priority. We will look at every opportunity to work with the police and the community to crack down on anti-social behaviour in our town centre, ensuring that our public spaces are not only safe but vibrant and bustling places where people feel confident to visit, shop, work and spend time.”

The consultation, which runs until 15 October 2025, can be found via this link:  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PSPOExtensionAshton