Residents in Southsea are being asked to share their views on proposed new rules for Wimbledon Park and Waverley Gardens that aim to curb anti-social behaviour. Portsmouth City Council is running a public consultation until Sunday 21 June 2026 to decide whether to introduce a Public Spaces Protection Order for the two sites.
The proposed order would ban drinking alcohol, playing loud music, and public urination within the parks. If the council approves the measures, police officers and council community wardens would have the authority to move people on from the areas and issue fines of up to £100 for those who violate the rules.
This initiative follows years of complaints from neighbours who report feeling intimidated and unable to use the parks. Official data shows there were 64 alcohol-related incidents reported at the sites over the last three years, alongside ongoing issues with noise and environmental damage. The area is home to several supported housing schemes for people dealing with drug and alcohol addiction, which local residents believe has contributed to the persistent anti-social behaviour.
The council has previously taken steps to address these concerns, including installing gates at Waverley Gardens in 2023 to restrict overnight access. Additionally, in August 2025, the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary implemented a dispersal order to help manage public disorder in the parks and the surrounding roads.
The move toward a formal order was prompted by a survey of 200 local residents conducted in March 2026 by St Jude ward councillor Denise Perry. Following the survey results, which showed a majority of respondents supported a consultation, the council decided to move forward with the process. Councillor Lee Hunt, cabinet member for community safety, leisure and sport, said the council will carefully consider all responses before making a final decision.
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