The Regulatory Committee of Richmond upon Thames Council met on Tuesday 23 June 2026. The committee considered the extension of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) and a proposed revision to the Statement of Licensing Policy.

Extension of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs)

The committee recommended to Full Council the extension of the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames Public Spaces Protection Orders for Anti-Social Activity and Dog Control for a further three years, from 22 September 2026. This decision followed a public consultation which indicated strong support for the renewal of these orders, with residents continuing to report issues related to anti-social behaviour and dog control.

Key changes include a clarification and simplification of the wording in Article 13 of the Anti-Social Behaviour PSPO concerning power-driven aircraft, including drones. Some proposed site-specific dog control arrangements were not recommended for adoption due to safety and operational reasons.

Additionally, the committee recommended to Full Council the proposed increase in the Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) fee to £100, with a reduced rate of £75 if paid within 10 days, aligning with benchmarking against neighbouring boroughs. Authority was also recommended to be delegated to the Executive Director of Resident Services, in consultation with the Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, to vary the FPN fee in line with new powers expected under the Crime and Policing Act 2026.

During the discussion, it was clarified that the path adjacent to Petersham Meadows is a towpath and not part of the meadows itself. Concerns were raised about the definition of animal in relation to Article 14 of the PSPO, with officers confirming that enforcement is proportionate and focuses on significant breaches rather than minor infringements like swatting a mosquito. The enforcement approach will continue to prioritise engagement and education before resorting to enforcement action.

Proposed Revised Statement of Licensing Policy

The committee reviewed the proposed revised Statement of Licensing Policy, which is required to be updated every five years. The current policy expires in February 2027. The revised policy aims to remain current, reflect legislative changes, and provide clear guidance.

Significant proposed changes include:

• Areas of Special Interest: The existing cumulative impact zones (CIZs) in Richmond Town Centre and Twickenham Town Centre are proposed to be replaced by 'Areas of Special Interest and Consultation'. This approach aims to be less of a blunt instrument than CIZs, allowing for a broader range of evidence, including community safety data and residential concerns, to be considered. The consultation will also explore potential new areas of special interest, such as Whitton, Richmond Green, and Richmond Riverside.
• Updated Guidance: The policy incorporates updated guidance from the Secretary of State's Section 182 guidance, emphasizing the need to consider local plans and strategies, including economic growth, business support, and the London Plan 2021.
• New Policy Sections: Dedicated sections have been added or enhanced to cover:
  • Alcohol-related public health concerns within the borough.
  • Equality and human rights considerations.
  • Guidance on white-collar boxing and charity boxing events.
  • Guidance on outdoor events and temporary structures, including engagement with the Safety Advisory Group.
  • 'Ask for Angela' and violence against women and girls (VAWG) initiatives.
  • Counter-terrorism measures, including Martyn's Law and ACT training.
  • Environmental impact of generators.
  • Guidance for delivery services to minimise nuisance and anti-social behaviour.
  • Safeguards for alcohol deliveries and age verification.

The committee approved the draft Statement of Licensing Policy for public consultation, subject to amendments approved by the chair. The consultation will commence on 13 July 2026 and run for 12 weeks. Following the consultation, a further report will be presented to the committee and then to Full Council for final approval. The committee also approved seeking input from consultees on 'Areas of Special Interest' and the proposal for continuing with the special policy on cumulative impact for Richmond Town Centre and Twickenham Town Centre.