Hartlepool Borough Council is inviting people to have their say on proposals to extend two existing Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) for a further three years.
PSPOs were introduced under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and are designed to tackle anti-social behaviour and help ensure public spaces remain safe, clean and welcoming for everyone.
The Council has launched two separate public consultations seeking feedback on the future of orders covering dog control measures and alley gates.
Councillor Amanda Napper, Chair of the Council’s Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services Committee, said: "These orders have helped us protect public spaces, promote responsible dog ownership and support communities affected by anti-social behaviour. As we consider whether to extend them for a further three years, it's important that local people tell us what they think. We want to hear from those who use our parks, beaches and neighbourhoods every day, so I would encourage residents, businesses, community groups and any other interested parties to take part in the consultation and have their say before the surveys close."
The first PSPO places restrictions on the exercising of dogs in certain locations and, in some instances right across the Borough of Hartlepool. It aims to help to ensure that public spaces, including children's play areas, cemeteries and bathing beaches, are protected from dog fouling and nuisance dog behaviour.
The restrictions place a responsibility on dog walkers to:
- Clean up their dogs' faeces.
- Carry an appropriate means of picking up dog faeces.
- Place their dog on a lead when directed to do so by a designated person, such as a police officer, Police Community Support Officer or Council enforcement officer.
- Ensure that one person exercises no more than four dogs at any one time.
- Keep dogs on leads in specified locations.
- Keep their dogs away from certain locations.
- Keep dogs on a lead of no more than 1.5 metres long in designated areas.
Residents, businesses and community groups are being asked whether they support an extension of the PSPO for a further three years and they can comment by completing an online survey. The survey and full details of the existing PSPO can be accessed at https://yoursay.hartlepool.gov.uk/pspo-2026
The second consultation relates to the PSPO that allows alley gates installed in some back streets and other locations to remain in place.
The purpose of the order is to prevent unauthorised pedestrians and vehicles from accessing areas enclosed by alley gates, helping to reduce anti-social behaviour and improve community safety.
Again, all interested parties are being encouraged to share their views on the proposed extension by completing a survey. The survey and the full PSPO schedule is available at https://yoursay.hartlepool.gov.uk/pspos-2026-alley-gates
Both consultations close on Sunday 23 August 2026.
Anyone who is unable to complete either of the two surveys online can complete a paper copy in one of the community hubs or in the civic centre reception to have their say.