Peterborough city centre is set to remain under heightened security measures for at least another three years, as councillors prepare to extend and strengthen Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO) aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour. The move comes amid growing concerns from residents and business owners about a perceived increase in crime and disorder within the city.
Recent reports detail a rise in incidents ranging from shoplifting by young children to aggressive behaviour from individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Laura Kavaliauskaite, a local resident, described a worsening situation, stating, “I spot a lot of people drunk or high on drugs in the city centre every day. There’s been more thefts too as a result.” She also reported instances of aggressive behaviour from groups of youths, including swearing and threatening gestures towards members of the public.
The extension of the City Centre PSPO, initially introduced in April 2023 and due to expire in April 2026, was recommended in a report presented to the Cabinet on March 4, 2026. The orders grant police and authorized council officers additional powers to address issues such as street drinking, begging, and nuisance behaviour. Specifically, the City Centre PSPO allows officers to request individuals to dispose of alcohol or depart the area for up to six hours, unless for a lawful reason. It also prohibits public urination and defecation, as well as aggressive or intimidating begging within 10 metres of cash machines.
Concerns extend beyond the city centre. A shop owner, who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons, described being a “prime target” for thieves and relying on a radio link to communicate with police and security personnel. He highlighted the frustration of seeing repeat offenders receive minimal penalties, citing the case of a shoplifter who received a £20 fine after breaching a banning order. “It’s the same people. Street drinkers are a big issue,” he said.
Data indicates a concerning trend in Peterborough’s crime rates. As of February 2026, the overall crime rate stood at 103.4 crimes per 1,000 people, significantly higher than the national average of 72. Approximately 38% of reported incidents were violent crimes, although 18.4% were classified as anti-social behaviour. Drug offences have seen the most substantial increase, rising by 14.6% over the past year.
The PSPO extension is not limited to the city centre. Plans are also underway to align the conditions of the PSPO covering Millfield, New England, Eastfield, and Embankment, suggesting a broader strategy to address anti-social behaviour across multiple areas of Peterborough. A PSPO implemented in November 2022, which led to the installation of a gate on the Kings Walk alleyway off Dogsthorpe Road, is also being considered for a three-year extension following a reported reduction in crime in that area. Between May 2024 and April 2025, 386 crime and anti-social behaviour incidents were recorded in the vicinity of Kings Walk.
Cambridgeshire Police have stated their commitment to tackling crime in Peterborough, emphasizing increased patrols and collaboration with business owners to target offenders. Detective Chief Inspector Chris O’Brien said, “We are committed to tackling crime and associated anti-social behaviour in Peterborough and we are conscious of the increase in reports of certain crimes, including retail theft.” He also noted the formation of a “spree offender team” aimed at increasing positive outcomes for retail crime cases.
Despite police efforts, some business owners express skepticism. Akrur Karki, who runs a perfume stall, reported daily instances of public drug use and drinking, with limited police response. He also cited a loss of £4,500 worth of items during last year’s Christmas market, which remains unrecovered. Jederson Pires, owner of JP Butcher, highlighted the impact of homelessness and break-ins on local businesses, expressing concern that shops could be forced to close if the situation deteriorates further.
The extension of the PSPOs is scheduled to be formally approved by councillors, with the orders remaining in effect until 2029. The decision follows consultation feedback indicating overwhelming public support for the measures.
