Nottingham City Council has launched a public consultation on a proposal to introduce a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Norfolk Place, a narrow alleyway in the city centre.
The proposed PSPO would restrict public access to a section of the alleyway in response to long-standing issues with anti-social behaviour, including drug use and dealing, drinking, littering, fly-tipping, and public urination and defecation.
The Council’s ambition is for everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Nottingham to enjoy safe, clean and welcoming public spaces. Norfolk Place has been identified as a location where persistent anti-social behaviour has had a significant detrimental impact on the quality of life for nearby businesses, residents and visitors.
Evidence gathered over several years by the Council, Nottinghamshire Police and other partners shows repeated and ongoing issues in the area. This includes more than 150 recorded incidents in the past 24 months, along with frequent complaints from local businesses and the need for regular cleansing due to waste, litter and drug paraphernalia.
The proposed PSPO would apply to a 22-metre section of Norfolk Place, restricting general public access while continuing to allow access for emergency services, businesses and their staff, waste collection, utilities, and authorised officers. Clear alternative routes are available nearby.
If introduced, the PSPO would be in place for up to three years, subject to review. Breaching the restrictions without reasonable excuse could result in enforcement action, including a fixed penalty notice or prosecution.
Councillor Corall Jenkins, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Waste and Equalities, said: “Our priority is to make sure Nottingham’s public spaces are safe, clean and welcoming for everyone. We work closely with businesses, partners and the police to tackle anti-social behaviour, and this proposal reflects the need to address persistent issues in this location while balancing access for those who rely on it. We are keen to hear from residents, businesses and stakeholders as part of this consultation before any decision is made.”
As required by law, the Council is now seeking views from residents, businesses and stakeholders before any decision is made.
More information about Public Spaces Protection Orders can be found on the Council’s website.
To take part in the consultation on the proposed Norfolk Place PSPO, residents, businesses and stakeholders are invited to complete the online survey before 11.59pm on 27 February 2026.