Consultation: Public Spaces Protection Orders for alley gating

Local people are being asked to take part in our online statutory consultation over whether all alley gates across Preston should continue to be subject to Public Spaces Protection Order. The consultation is open till 2nd October. 

Over the last twenty years, Preston City Council has installed several alley gates to help reduce crime and disorder. From October 2017, when new laws were brought in, all alley gated areas came under Public Space Protection Orders, meaning they remain closed off with people prohibited from entering the restricted area. Exemptions are in place for statutory and emergency services and owners of adjoining properties. 

Every three years, the Council is required to review the alley gating schemes and whether they should be kept as they are, consulting with local people prior to making a final decision. The last consultation was held in 2020. 

Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet member for environment and community safety, said: 

"Alley gating has been an effective tool to combat issues such as anti-social behaviour and criminality, with a partnership approach between the police, local authorities, and the community. 

"Installing gates to the ends of back streets and alleyways provides a safe and clean environment for residents by securing previously vulnerable areas. 

"It is now important that we gather views on the continued use of alley gates in Preston and the Public Spaces Protection Orders. Visit our alley gating consultation section to give your views up until 5pm on Monday 2nd October." 

More information

The current Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) for alley gating in Preston will expire on 20 October 2023. 

If further PSPOs are made they will prohibit persons from being 'in' the restricted area at any times, subject to exemptions for residents of adjoining properties, emergency, and statutory services. Alternative routes for pedestrians are available through the adjoining street network. 

Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate. Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone. For more information see our Community Wealth Building section.

Update on Public Spaces Protection Orders

The Cabinet approved on Wednesday 11 October 2023 the extension of the Public Spaces Protection Orders for a further 3 years, ending on 19 October 2026.