ASHFORD — In a decisive move to reclaim the streets from anti-social behaviour, Ashford Borough Council has officially renewed and toughened its Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), specifically targeting a dangerous rise in projectile weapons and unruly transport.
The updated order, which covers the Urban and South Ashford areas, now makes it a punishable offence to carry catapults, slingshots, or similar devices capable of firing projectiles. This amendment follows growing concerns over public safety and potential property damage within the town centre, signalling an end to the use of these “old-school” weapons in modern public spaces.
Tightening the Net on Nuisance Behaviour
The renewed PSPO isn’t limited to slingshots; it also introduces a sweeping ban on the operation of e-scooters and e-bikes within the designated areas. While the council has carved out essential exceptions for mobility scooters used by those with limited mobility and standard electrically assisted pedal cycles, the message for everyone else is clear: unauthorized electric transport is no longer welcome in the urban heart of Ashford.
Under these new rules, anyone caught carrying a catapult or illegally operating an e-scooter faces a £100 fixed penalty notice or potential prosecution. This geographical approach allows the council to tackle problematic activities across entire zones rather than relying on individual injunctions, providing a more robust shield for the local community.
A Long-Term Commitment to Safety
Originally introduced in late 2023, the PSPO has been refined following a public consultation in November to better address current threats to public wellbeing. Beyond the new bans on weapons and electric vehicles, the order continues to empower authorities to combat persistent street drinking and the anti-social use of motor vehicles that have long plagued residents and business owners.
Cllr Katrina Giles, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Health at Ashford Borough Council, said:
“I’m pleased that we actively continue to tackle the issues outlined in the PSPO that are affecting residents and visitors in the area. The amendments are in line with current trends, data and patterns that our Enforcement and Community Safety teams along with Kent Police are facing and this order sends out a clear message that certain behaviours will not be tolerated.”
More information on the updated PSPO as well as other active PSPOs within the borough can be found at www.ashford.gov.uk/public-spaces-protection-order.