Stafford Borough Council is set to ban face coverings, including balaclavas, in public spaces as part of a renewed crackdown on anti-social behaviour by "feral yobs" and street protesters. The ban will be enforced under an updated Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) due to take effect in December 2026, with offenders facing fixed penalty notices of up to £100.
Council Targets Intimidating Face Coverings
The new PSPO, approved by the borough council last week, targets what a council report describes as an "emerging issue of young adults" wearing coverings that cause harassment, alarm, or distress. Councillor Jill Hood, cabinet member for community, said during the council meeting: "I'm sure we've all seen the young people who appear to have black face coverings - used to intimidate or enable antisocial behaviour. This will not be permitted."
Exemptions will apply for genuine religious or health reasons. The order will cover Stafford town centre and surrounding areas, aiming to improve public safety and reassurance, particularly in busy locations. Hood added: "Fear of crime can be just as intimidating as an actual crime occurring. Fixed penalty notices would be issued for non-compliance."
Consultation and Implementation Timeline
The ban will be subject to a public consultation before implementation around Christmas 2026, when the existing PSPO expires. The current PSPO, in force since 2023, already restricts street drinking, cycling in pedestrianised areas, and "chugging" (charity fundraisers seeking bank details). It also limits the number of dogs per walker and bans bird feeding in town centres and public open spaces.
The updated order also includes measures to tackle unauthorised access into buildings or onto rooftops, and loitering likely to cause anti-social behaviour. PSPOs last for three years, meaning the new restrictions will remain in place until at least 2029.
Busking Rules Relaxed to Boost High Street Atmosphere
Alongside the face covering ban, the council has proposed relaxing restrictions on busking with amplifiers in Stafford and Stone town centres. The current ban on amplified busking was introduced due to complaints from businesses and visitors, but councillors now feel it prevents legitimate entertainment. Hood said she was "very keen" for the change, noting: "For a few months, we've lost that – visitors used to come to the busking areas, and they're now asking when they will be back. We can tell them it's very soon."
The new PSPO will prohibit amplified sound equipment only if it causes harassment, alarm, distress, or a public nuisance. The council report stated: "When managed well, busking can bring a range of social, cultural and economic benefits to public spaces - creating a vibrant, enjoyable and welcoming environment for residents and visitors." Cabinet members have supported the busking changes.
Community Safety and Business Support
Hood emphasised that the council has listened to residents and businesses: "We've listened to residents and businesses of the borough - they want a safe borough to live and shop, run a business and for their families to thrive. I hope you will agree with this going to consultation." The measures are designed to balance public safety with community life, ensuring Stafford remains a welcoming place for all.
