A new ban on face coverings is set to be introduced in a bid to cut antisocial behaviour in Stafford Borough – but buskers will once again be allowed to amplify their performances in two town centres in changes to council rules.

The face-covering rule being proposed by Stafford Borough Council would not apply to anyone wearing them for "genuine religious purposes" or medical or health reasons, but is in response to an "emerging issue" of "youth adults" wearing coverings and "causing harassment, alarm, and distress", a report said.

Another new restriction in the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) aims to prevent unauthorised access onto buildings and rooftops in Stafford Borough.

The current order is due to expire later this year, and borough council cabinet members agreed to approve the proposed changes at their meeting on Thursday (June 18), following a consultation.

PSPOs last for three years and the current one covering areas of Stafford Borough already restricts activities such as boozing on the street, riding bikes through pedestrianised areas and "chugging", which involves fundraisers seeking bank details from passers-by to make regular charity donations.

Other measures restrict the number of dogs one person can walk or exclude the animals from public places such as play areas.

The PSPO which came into force in 2023 introduced a ban on bird feeding in town centres and public open spaces, which is set to remain, and a restriction on buskers using amplifiers in Stafford and Stone town centres which is set to be relaxed.

A report to Thursday's cabinet meeting said: "This prohibited activity was introduced in response to numerous complaints from businesses and visitors, and has been effective in its purpose.

"Despite this, it is felt that this prohibited activity, in its current form, prevents legitimate attempts to provide entertainment.

"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. It can also enrich community life, provide opportunity for local talent and help foster a positive shared public realm.

"It is therefore proposed that the new PSPO will prohibit the use of amplified sound equipment in a manner that causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress, or a public nuisance to others in the restricted area.

"This will seek to create a balance between allowing beneficial entertainment, whilst still preventing nuisance that has a detrimental effect on the community."

The changes to the busking restriction have been supported by cabinet members.

Cllr Jill Hood, cabinet member for community, said: "I was very keen that this change be made, because having music in town centres adds to the atmosphere in the High Street.

"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."

Cllr Tony Pearce said: "Like you, I welcome that there is to be flexibility on the issue of amplified music.

"A lot of people enjoy it, but there are those who abuse it and have it too loud and others whose performance constitutes a nuisance rather than a pleasure."

Other PSPO changes include measures to tackle loitering that is causing – or likely to cause – antisocial behaviour and the current measures have seen 89 dispersal orders being issued in the borough by police over a 12-month period.

The area covered is set to be extended to the entirety of the borough.

Cllr Hood said: "The existing loitering PSPO has helped reduce antisocial behaviour in groups of five or more but police have found it difficult with smaller groups.

By removing the minimum number, and extending the order across the borough, it's thought it will prevent antisocial behaviour.

"Police will be able to act immediately without applying for permission.

"I stress that common sense will be used, and law-abiding groups or individuals not committing antisocial behaviour will not be targeted.

"Unauthorised climbing or access onto buildings and rooftops is prohibited in the borough.

"There have been 62 known incidents since January 2025 – this antisocial behaviour often leads to criminal damage and complaints.

"Work is ongoing between the Community Safety Team and Early Intervention and Prevention Officers, to make areas less accessible.

"This will prevent injury and damage across all public buildings and structures and it can be extremely dangerous.

"Face covering – and I'm sure we've all seen the young people who appear to have black face coverings – is used to intimidate or enable antisocial behaviour.

"This will not be permitted; this supports public safety and reassurance in all restricted public areas, particularly busy town centre locations.

"Fear of crime can be just as intimidating as an actual crime occurring.

"Fixed penalty notices would be issued for non-compliance.

"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."