Public Spaces Protection Order renewed for Ashford Town Centre

Ashford Borough Council has renewed a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Ashford Urban, which encompasses the area around Ashford Town Centre and South Ashford.

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.

The previous PSPO for Ashford Urban was introduced in December 2023 and has now been renewed and amended three years later in line with the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, and following a public consultation in November.

Amendments to the order include the prohibition of being in possession of any catapult, slingshot or similar device capable of discharging a projectile, as well as the prohibition of riding or operating an e-scooter, e-bike or any other electrically powered personal transport device within the areas that the order encompasses. An exception applies for mobility scooters used by individuals with disabilities or limited mobility, and electrically assisted pedal cycles.

The order will also aim to address behaviours that have been identified as causing nuisance or harm to the community, such as street drinking, anti-social use of vehicles, and other activities that undermine public safety and wellbeing. 

These measures are part of our ongoing commitment to reduce ASB, improve community safety, and maintain a welcoming environment for residents, local businesses, and visitors.

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 on our dedicated Public Spaces Protection Order web page.