Photo: Ashford Borough Council
Ashford Borough Council is consulting on the renewal of its Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Conningbrook Lakes. This will allow the council to maintain a range of measures to address anti-social behaviour (ASB) issues, help to improve community safety and the local environment in this area. The renewed order would be in place until June 2027.
The consultation launched on 10 May 2024 and runs until midnight on 2 June 2024.
PSPOs allow councils to tackle anti-social or damaging behaviour which takes place in a specific, geographical area (as opposed to criminal behaviour orders and injunctions which are directed at individuals). A PSPO is tailored for defined activities, meaning that anyone carrying them out in an area under one of these orders can be issued a fixed penalty notice or be prosecuted.
The area of Conningbrook Lakes was identified by the council, police reports and complaints received from local residents for nuisance issues as well as impacts on local wildlife. Restrictions currently in place include no camping or caravanning, dogs to be kept on leads at all times, no unauthorised water activities and all anglers must have the appropriate licence and membership.
Following the end of the consultation period, all responses will be analysed and the results reported back to the council. The council will then decide whether the order will be renewed or whether any changes are needed to be made.
Residents can find out more about the consultation and take part using the link: https://haveyoursay.ashford.gov.uk/pspo-conningbrook-lakes
If you don’t have access to the internet, either visit the Civic Centre to use one of the computer terminals or pick up a hard copy.