Coventry city centre set for tougher anti-social behaviour crackdown
Proposed changes would target disruption in public spaces while keeping existing restrictions on e-bikes and skateboarding
A tougher crackdown on anti-social behaviour and public nuisance in Coventry city centre is being proposed, with the council looking to renew and update its Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO).
The current order, which is due to expire in November 2026, would be changed to focus on behaviour causing “harassment, alarm, or distress”, including disruption from loud sound equipment, gazebos and stalls.
Existing restrictions on busking, e-bikes, cycling, skateboarding and e-scooters would remain, but the council says the updated order would take a more targeted approach.
Officers told a council meeting: “The proposed renewal presents an opportunity to not only extend but to modernise its approach, and ensure it remains effective in addressing current and emerging issues.”
They added the focus would move away from activity-based restrictions and instead target the impact of behaviour on others.
“It ensures that enforcement action is reserved for situations where there is clear evidence of harassment, alarm, or distress,” officers said.
The changes would also include new powers around amplified sound, affecting activities such as public speaking, campaigning and performances where they cause disruption.
Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Cohesion, Cllr John McNicholas, said enforcement would be key, adding: “We get lots of complaints about e-bikes so it’s pointless having this provision unless it’s enforced. It is important that we respond to the concerns raised by the general public.”
Officers said enforcement action had already taken place since e-bike restrictions were introduced in 2023, with warnings issued and illegally modified bikes seized during police operations.
A four-week public consultation on the proposed changes will run from June 29 to July 26 before a final decision is made.