Residents are being urged to share their views about how anti-social behaviour is tackled in the Folkestone & Hythe district.
A six-week consultation has been launched prior to the proposed renewal of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) later this year.
A PSPO is used in defined geographical areas to help control intimidating behaviour, perhaps arising from excessive drinking or using intoxicating substances. It has a three-stage process:
- The first enables council staff or police officers to warn people and give them the opportunity to stop their behaviour
- If the behaviour does not stop then the second stage is a £100 fixed penalty notice
- Failure to pay this could result in the third stage – a court prosecution and fine of up to £1000
A PSPO was introduced into the district in 2019 and extended in 2022. Its measures include no urinating, spitting, defecating or begging in a public space and also covers the control of anti-social street entertainment, unauthorised street fundraising and unauthorised camping.
It is proposed the measures of the new order will be the same. An area of Hythe covered by some of the measures, is set to be extended in the town following complaints about unauthorised camping.
A Folkestone & Hythe District Council spokesperson said: “The PSPO is a way of preventing the type of anti-social behaviour that is most often complained about by residents.
“It is a useful tool as it allows for education to come first and enables people to stop their behaviour and move on before any further action need be taken.”
A draft of the proposed new PSPO can be found on the council website. Comments can be emailed to asb.consultation@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk .
Printed copies of the draft order are available by contacting the council on 01303 853000. Comments can be sent to the Community Safety Unit, Folkestone & Hythe District Council, Civic Centre, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2QY.
The results of the public consultation will be reviewed and a final decision made by cabinet members.