TENTERDEN – Ashford Borough Council has officially opened a public consultation regarding the implementation of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) designed to curb rising anti-social behaviour in the Tenterden Urban area.
The move follows a surge in reports involving property damage, harm to local wildlife, and the targeted vandalism of vehicles. Investigations conducted by Ashford Borough Council in partnership with Kent Police and Tenterden Town Council suggest a disturbing trend linked to the use of projectile devices. Under the proposed PSPO, authorities would gain expanded powers to intervene in specific geographic zones rather than relying solely on orders directed at individuals.
If approved, the order would criminalize several specific activities within the designated boundary. Key restrictions include the possession of any device capable of discharging a projectile, the anti-social use of vehicles and e-scooters, and the use of foul or abusive language that causes alarm or distress. Individuals found in breach of these regulations could face immediate prosecution or a fixed penalty notice of £100.
Council officials emphasized that the proposed measures are a proportionate response to persistent issues that have negatively impacted the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. By establishing clear legal expectations for conduct in public spaces, the local authorities aim to provide a more robust framework for early intervention and community reassurance.
The consultation process allows the public to review the evidence gathered and provide feedback on the defined boundaries and specific restrictions of the order before it is officially ratified. These measures are part of the council’s ongoing commitment to reduce anti-social behaviour (ASB), improve community safety, and maintain a welcoming environment for residents and visitors. This consultation gives residents the opportunity to share views on the proposed PSPO and the full restrictions as well as suggest any additional issues which should be considered. The responses will help shape the final decision and ensure that the PSPO reflects the needs and priorities of the local community.
Cllr Katrina Giles, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Health at Ashford Borough Council, said:
“We want everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Tenterden to feel safe and welcome. This consultation is about seeking local views on a proposed Public Spaces Protection Order for Tenterden Urban, which would give us additional powers to address specific behaviours that are causing nuisance or harm in public spaces.
“A PSPO is not about penalising people for day-to-day activity; it is about setting clear expectations and enabling proportionate action where anti-social behaviour persists. I would encourage residents, businesses and visitors to take a few minutes to share their views, so any decision we take is informed by the community and reflects local priorities.”
Have your say by visiting the consultation portal at haveyoursay.ashford.gov.uk/tenterden-urban-public-spaces-protection-order-consultation. More information on PSPOs within the borough can be found at www.ashford.gov.uk/public-spaces-protection-order.