Order to tackle anti-social behaviour approved

An order aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour in two Warwickshire town centres has been approved.

The public space protection order (PSPO) will be enforced in Nuneaton and Bedworth town centres, to stop behaviour that could cause "alarm or distress" to others using the space.

It aims to tackle loitering groups, people cycling, scooting or skateboarding in a dangerous manner and those wearing face coverings in a threatening way.

The order was approved by Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council's cabinet at a meeting on Wednesday.

Council papers show that 98% of the 316 locals who responded to a consultation support the plans.

Breaching the order will be a criminal offence, punishable by fines of up to £100.

At the meeting on Wednesday, councillors heard that the rules would only be enforced on groups of three or more "acting in such a manner as to cause harassment, alarm or distress to any person".

Cyclists will also be able to continue to use their bikes in the town centres as long as they are not acting in a "malicious or dangerous manner" such as pulling wheelies or riding at speed at someone in a threatening manner.

A council report also said the rules were not banning any religious face coverings.

The area covered by the PSPO included Nuneaton town centre as well as the area to the west, surrounding the near by recreation ground.

In Bedworth, the order will cover the town centre as well as the area surrounding the Miners Welfare Park to the south.

The rules will be enforced on a date to be decided.

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