Camden’s Cabinet has approved the consultation of a borough-wide Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), banning irresponsible alcohol consumption on the streets.
The plan sets out new restrictions and penalties against people causing alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in public spaces, giving the police and council enforcement officers additional powers to impose this.
The PSPO would require anyone to stop drinking alcohol, or anything that is believed to be alcohol, if requested to do so by an authorised officer. Also to surrender any alcohol or anything an officer believes to be alcohol – which will be disposed of. Any breach of these conditions would be a criminal offence and could result in a fixed penalty notice.
The plan is part of the council’s ongoing work to reduce anti-social behaviour across the borough, following resident concerns around alcohol consumption on the streets and in local parks.
The proposal will first go through a public consultation in early 2026 for residents, businesses, and visitors to share their views before a decision is made. This will also include community safety groups, health service colleagues and rough sleeping services.
Enforcement officers will also refer any vulnerable people to appropriate support services where needed, including alcohol and substance misuse teams, rough sleeping support, or safeguarding.
Councillor Pat Callaghan, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, said: “We know anti-social behaviour has a serious impact on residents, businesses, and visitors in Camden – and we’re committed to doing everything we can with our community partners to tackle this.
“While many people drink alcohol responsibly in Camden, these new powers would allow us to take further action against people acting irresponsibly on our streets and causing intimidating or unsafe behaviour towards others.
“As always, we are listening to community concerns and experiences to help build a safer borough for everyone and we will soon welcome people to share their views on the proposals.”
The PSPO would cover all streets and public spaces in Camden, with a proposal to include Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill. It would not cover Hampstead Heath, which is under the jurisdiction of the City of London.
The restrictions would be in place for three years, before requiring a review for extension.
The plan was agreed at the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 14 January 2026 – visit our webpage to view the full report.
