Public Spaces Protection Order consultation launched for Tenterden

Ashford Borough Council has launched a consultation on the proposed introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Tenterden Urban.

PSPOs allow councils to tackle anti-social behaviour which takes place in a specific, geographical area (as opposed to criminal behaviour orders and injunctions which are directed at individuals). A PSPO covers particular activities, meaning that anyone carrying them out in an area under one of these orders can be prosecuted or issued with a £100 fixed penalty notice.

Over recent months, Ashford Borough Council, Kent Police and Tenterden Town Council have received reports of wildlife being killed and damage being caused to residential property and vehicles. The three organisations have been working closely together to review the evidence as it has emerged and to identify common trends. Reports suggest the incidents are linked to the use of projectile devices, and this information has helped to define the proposed area covered by the order.

The proposed PSPO is intended to provide additional, proportionate powers to address persistent anti-social behaviour in public spaces within the defined area, where recent reports and evidence indicate that certain behaviours are having a detrimental impact on residents, visitors, local wildlife and the wider environment. 

The restrictions focus on specific issues that have been identified locally, including persons being in possession of devices capable of discharging a projectile, vehicles being used in an anti-social manner, the use of e-scooters in a way that causes nuisance or danger, and persons using foul or abusive language. 

By setting clear expectations for conduct in public places, the PSPO would support early intervention, provide reassurance to the community, and enable enforcement action where behaviour continues to cause nuisance, alarm or distress.

These measures are part of our ongoing commitment to reduce anti-social behaviour (ASB), improve community safety, and maintain a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.

Your feedback is essential. This consultation gives you the opportunity to share your views on the proposed PSPO and the full restrictions as well as suggest any additional issues you believe 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 our consultation portal. More information on PSPOs within the borough can be found on our dedicated web page.