Legal challenge over abortion buffer zone rejected

A legal challenge against a decision to impose an abortion clinic ‘buffer zone’ that includes residential properties has failed. However, the court clarified that the behaviour in private homes and gardens was not covered by the Order.

Meanwhile, draft guidance on buffer zones fails to fully protect silent prayer.

The ruling related to a 150-metre public space protection order (PSPO) imposed in October 2022 around a Bournemouth clinic which prohibits (among other conduct) prayer and Scripture reading. It is the first time private residential properties are within the geographical reach of a PSPO.