Norfolk Street / West Street Public Spaces Protection Order Renewal 2026
Following feedback from the local community and observations made by Fenland District Council and partners, the passageway situated between 109 and 108A Norfolk Street, that links Norfolk Street and West Street in Wisbech (as shown by the red hatched area on the map below), was closed in 2023.
This was closed using the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) legislation (Chapter 2: Section 59 Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014). Under the current order, entrance to the passageway (Restricted Area) is prohibited as follows: Unless an employee of Fenland District Council or a member of the emergency services. In either case acting within their capacity not to access or attempt to access the Restricted Area, not to tamper or attempt to tamper with the gates either end of the Restricted Area.
The closure was brought in due to persistent anti-social behaviour occurring in the passageway (including: littering, urination and defecation, drugs, drinking and sexual activity) to lessen the negative impact it was having on the immediate area. The current PSPO expires in July 2026.
It is required by law to be subject to a review at or before three years of its introduction. We are seeking any comments on the possible renewal of the PSPO and whether you are in support or are against a renewal.
We ask that you respond to the following questions to assist us in determining whether the extension of the Order to 2029 is justified.
Please tick next to the relevant answer
1. In what capacity do you wish to respond to this consultation?
As a local resident
As a local business
As a landlord (in the immediate area of Norfolk Street)
Other (please specify)
2. What is your postcode?
(Required.)
3. Which age band best describes you?
Under 18
18-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
65+
4. How far do you agree or disagree with the proposed extension to the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) limiting access to the passageway?
Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
5. Are you aware that the Order was put in place due to anti-social behaviour associated with the passage?
Yes
No
6. Have you experienced any issues in relation to anti-social behaviour in relation to the passage since the Order became effective?
Yes
No
7. If the Order was not renewed and the gates removed, which of the following do you believe may apply
There would be a positive benefit to the community to allow unrestricted access to the passage
The problems with anti-social behaviour as identified in the Order would start again to the detriment of the area
8. Do you support the renewal of the Order to prevent anti-social behaviour?
(Required.)
Yes
No
9. Please provide any other relevant comments to assist the Council in determining whether to extend the Order:
