Woking Town Centre Gets Tough on Antisocial Behaviour
New Powers Coming to Woking's High Street
Woking town centre is about to see significant changes in how police tackle antisocial behaviour, following approval of a public space protection order (PSPO) by Woking Borough Council's executive. This three-year measure represents a direct response to persistent complaints from shoppers, business owners, and residents who've witnessed troubling incidents affecting the heart of our community.
The PSPO will grant police enhanced enforcement powers to address street drinking, threatening behaviour, and the intimidating use of face coverings in public spaces. For locals who've noticed the decline in footfall along the High Street and surrounding neighbourhoods, this decision marks a turning point. Councillor Steve Greentree emphasised the measure's importance: “This supports local businesses, residents and visitors who come to our town centre to enjoy themselves.”
The council's backing comes after comprehensive consultation revealed strong public support—80% of 362 respondents backed the crackdown. Unlike nearby towns such as Guildford and Dorking, which have implemented similar measures, Woking has now joined communities taking decisive action. The order follows a successful pilot scheme in Mount Hermon, where similar restrictions proved effective in reducing problems and restoring community confidence in public spaces.
What Prompted This Action? Local Impacts Explained
Reports submitted to the council painted a concerning picture of Woking town centre's decline. Police identified a pattern of problems centred around groups consuming alcohol heavily during late afternoons and early evenings, often combined with shoplifting. These gatherings weren't simply nuisances—they actively deterred potential customers from visiting the town centre, affecting the livelihoods of retailers, hospitality venues, and service providers.
Business owners in the area have felt the ripple effects acutely. Restaurants, cafes, and shops dependent on passing trade reported fewer visitors willing to venture into the town centre. Even local tradespeople—from bathroom fitters handling refurbishment projects in town centre properties to other service providers—noticed reduced work opportunities as businesses struggled with declining footfall.
Councillor Ian Johnson recognised the broader community impact: “If this makes people in the town feel safer, then that's a very good thing.” The PSPO represents an acknowledgment that safety and civility are prerequisites for a thriving town centre. Unlike Horsley and East Horsley, which maintain quieter residential characters, Woking's role as a major commercial hub demands proactive management to preserve its viability and ensure residents and visitors can move freely without apprehension or concern.
What Happens Next? Your Guide to the Changes
The PSPO now advances to full Woking Borough Council for formal approval. Once passed, the order becomes enforceable for three years, giving police the legal backing to intervene in situations previously requiring different legal frameworks. Residents should expect to see increased police presence in designated areas, particularly during peak problem times.
Understanding the order's scope matters for everyone using Woking town centre. Police can now direct individuals away from public spaces, confiscate alcohol in restricted areas, and issue fixed penalties for breaches. These aren't arbitrary powers—they're targeted responses to documented patterns of behaviour affecting community safety.
Local residents should stay informed through Woking Borough Council's communications and Surrey Police updates about designated areas and specific restrictions. Business owners planning refurbishment projects—whether bathroom refurbishment work or other improvements—may find renewed confidence in investing in town centre properties as safety improves.
Watch for implementation details and any consultation on specific restricted zones. If you've witnessed antisocial behaviour or have concerns, report them to Surrey Police. The success of this measure depends on community engagement and police resources. Keep an eye on council meetings and local news for updates on how the order's effectiveness is being monitored over the coming months.
Source: Measures to tackle rowdy behaviour with PSPO in Woking move closer
