Public Space Protection Orders

See the bottom of the page to take part in our survey on the proposed Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) which would prohibit the use of pony and trap carriages on a section of the A40.  

Use this page to find out more about our current or proposed Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs).

What is a Public Space Protection Order?

The Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 allows the Local Authority to introduce a Public Space Protection Order to prevent individuals or groups from committing anti-social behaviour in specific areas.

An Order can be used to address persistent, continuing and unreasonable behaviour and can also be used as a preventative measure for anti-social behaviour that is likely to occur within a designated area. Public Space Protection Orders are designed to ensure that the law-abiding majority can use and enjoy public spaces without experiencing ASB and they apply to everyone.

How are they used?

Public Space Protection Orders impose prohibitions or restrictions on activities in a specified area.

Powers to Enforce

Authorised Officers can enforce these prohibitions and the penalty for breaching the Order is as follows:

• Breach of a PSPO is a criminal offence subject to, up to a level three fine on prosecution (up to £1,000).
• A Fixed Penalty Notice can be issued for £100
• Payment of the Fixed Penalty Notice discharges liability to conviction for the offence.
• The Police will work in partnership with the Council to ensure the effective enforcement of a proposed PSPO.

Requirements of the PSPO

A person who is believed to have engaged in a breach of an Order is required to give their name and address to a police officer, police community support officer or other authorised person designated by the council.

Duration of a PSPO

The duration of a PSPO can be up to 3 years at which time they are reviewed, and a decision will be made about whether the PSPO is still fit for purpose. At this time, an application to extend or vary an application can be made.

Current PSPO Consultations

West Oxfordshire residents are being asked for their views on a proposed Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) which would prohibit the use of pony and trap carriages on a section of the A40 extending from Downs Road Bridge in Witney to Asthall roundabout in Burford. The PSPO would be in place for 3 years until December 31^st, 2028.

The proposed Order will:

Prohibit - Use of pony and trap carriages on the A40 Dual carriageway East/Westbound from Downs Road bridge in Witney to Asthall roundabout in Burford.

The PSPO is being made in response to unauthorised pony and trap racing taking place on this specific stretch of the A40. These activities are unannounced, unregulated and pose serious risks to public safety. West Oxfordshire District Council is of the view that introducing a Public Space Protection Order will allow authorised officers to take enforcement actions against those found to be carrying out these activities.

Proposed Area

Dual Carriageway A40 Downs Road Bridge Witney to Asthall roundabout Burford delineated in pink below.

Have Your Say

We are now asking residents, businesses and other stakeholders for their views on this proposal.

You can have your say on the proposals by completing a short survey here.  Online public consultation will be open from 10 October 2025 until 21 November 2025