New rules to tackle anti-social behaviour come into force in Woking town centre later this month
Public Spaces Protection Order will apply within a designated area of the town centre
A new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) will come into force across parts of Woking town centre this October.
It was formally adopted by Woking Borough Council earlier this year, following strong public support.
The order is designed to help prevent and tackle anti-social behaviour and support a safer, more welcoming town centre.
What the order covers
The PSPO allows action to be taken against a range of behaviours that are causing, or are likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to members of the public.
Prohibited behaviours include alcohol-related intimidation and threatening or disruptive group activity.
They also include the use of face coverings to cause fear or conceal the identity of someone acting anti-socially.
Face coverings worn for medical, religious, or health and safety reasons are excluded.
The order applies within a designated area of Woking town centre.
Signage and wider work
New signage is being installed throughout the designated area to identify the PSPO zone and raise awareness of the restrictions.
The council says the order forms part of its wider work with Surrey Police and community safety partners to reduce anti-social behaviour.
It says the aim is to improve the experience of people who live, work and visit the town centre.
When it starts and how long it lasts
The order comes into force on 28th October 2026.
It will remain in effect until 27th October 2029, unless it is extended, varied or discharged.