Issue - meetings

Cabinet agreed the need for the introduction of new orders that would effectively manage anti-social behaviours (ASB) in areas that were currently experiencing a detrimental effect on the communities due the number of incidents of such behaviours.

Thanet already had two Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) to tackle alcohol related disorder and dog offences that covered the majority of the district. This proposed third PSPO was meant to tackle nuisance caused from anti-social groups and the deliberate misuse of public spaces.

Over half of all reported anti-social behaviour incidents in Thanet were in the following four wards which are:

• Margate Central;
• Central Harbour;
• Eastcliff and
• Cliftonville West.

It was therefore considered appropriate that these locations be the ‘designated area’ for this PSPO. Once adopted, the new Order would restrict for 3 years the following activities:

• Anti-Social group congregation of two or more persons when causing ASB and;
• Misuse of public spaces (when asked not to do so);
• Causing a deliberate nuisance to commercial premises;
• Using foul or abusive language;
• Excreting bodily fluids.

A public consultation was held between June and July this year, with the majority of consultees being strongly supportive of the proposals. Ward councillors and Ramsgate Town Council were directly consulted and were also supportive of this approach.

The introduction of the new Order would allow both council and police staff to tackle some of these issues which they were currently unable to do under current local arrangements.

Councillor Game proposed, Councillor Savage seconded and Cabinet agreed:

i)  To exercise its powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to introduce a Public Space Protection Order;

ii)  To delegate any minor amendment of the PSPO to a service Director;

iii)  To then approve a Fixed Penalty Notice fine amount of £80 with early repayment of £60.