Drivers across Stockport could face fines of up to £1,000 after the council reinstated a ban on car cruising and related antisocial behaviour. The Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), approved by Councillor Dan Oliver, gives local authorities and Greater Manchester Police enhanced powers to crack down on activities such as performing stunts, excessively revving engines, and repeatedly sounding horns.
Renewal of the Order
The PSPO, first introduced in 2017, has been renewed multiple times. The latest renewal, effective for three years, follows the expiration of the previous order in March 2026. Public consultation supported the continuation of the ban, which aims to address ongoing issues with car cruising events that have been described as noisy, disruptive, and dangerous.
According to a council notice, representatives of car cruise events had requested a designated location for such activities. However, the council declined, citing risks associated with dangerous driving and nuisance behaviour. The notice stated, "Our car parks are key locations for people who wish to visit and support the local economy. Previously, car parks have become unavailable to other users when occupied by car cruises."
Enforcement and Penalties
Enforcement of the PSPO is carried out by Stockport Council and Greater Manchester Police. Individuals found breaching the order face a minimum fine of £100, which can increase to £1,000 if the matter escalates to court. The order prohibits a range of activities, including causing danger to road users or pedestrians through speeding or racing, driving in convoy, performing stunts, and excessively revving engines that could cause backfiring.
Additionally, the ban covers repeatedly sounding horns, playing music excessively loud, using foul or abusive language, and engaging in threatening or intimidating behaviour. Obstructing public highways or spaces and advertising or attending car cruising events are also forbidden.
History and Impact
The original PSPO was introduced in 2017 after the council identified a serious problem with car cruising, involving large gatherings of car owners—often over 200 vehicles—in borough car parks. These unauthorized events typically occurred after 6pm when parking charges no longer applied, leading to complaints from residents and businesses about noise, disruption, and safety risks.
The council reported that the crackdown initially reduced the scale and duration of such events. However, incidents have persisted. In December 2025, 55 fines were issued at one event. Another event in Edgeley in July 2025 attracted 80 to 100 cars and around 200 people. Residents also reported issues with stunt riding of motorcycles and quad bikes on residential roads.
The council emphasized that the continuing development of Stockport's night-time economy, with increasing visitor numbers, makes the PSPO necessary to maintain public safety and order.
