Police call for extended anti-social control orders

Police have called for anti-social control orders in a Surrey town to be extended amid increasing thefts, robberies, and actual bodily harm (ABH).

The Surrey force had wanted Woking's Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) on public drinking and face coverings to run for three years.

But Woking Borough Council voted to introduce a one-year review to determine its effectiveness and proportionality. If it is shown to be effective, it would then be extended for a further two years.

Councillor Chris Martin said "residents clearly want action".

"But these are significant powers that restrict behaviour in public places and can feel a bit heavy-handed if they are not carefully managed," he added.

A PSPO gives officers more power to move people on, issue fines and seize items related to anti-social behaviour.

Between March 2024 and March 2026, there was "a significant rise" in thefts, robberies, and ABH, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Theft increased by 68%, robbery rose by 50% from six to nine cases, and ABH offences climbed by 13%, it reported citing council papers.

In response, Surrey Police issued more than 50 dispersal notices.

Councillor Stephen Greentree said police reported the town centre anti-social behaviour had been "characterised by groups of people street drinking and being abusive to passers by".

He also said face coverings have been used to conceal identity and engage in intimidation.

Greentree said the PSPO request had come from police based on evidence the force collected following a six week consultation.

He added: "These additional powers of the PSPO will allow officers to better control consumption of alcohol outside of licensed areas and identify individuals who use face masks."

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