Thanet District Council's decision to introduce a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) has sparked hopes that it will bring an end to the escalating problem of anti-social behaviour on the area's beaches. The order, which comes into force this Wednesday, is the latest effort by the council to tackle the growing issue, which has seen multiple incidents of fighting and intimidation on Margate and Ramsgate's seafronts.
Under the terms of the three-year PSPO, consuming alcohol in designated areas will be banned throughout the year. This includes a blanket ban on drinking in Margate and Ramsgate town centres. Authorised officers will also have the power to request that people surrender their alcohol, with non-compliance potentially resulting in enforcement action.
While the restrictions are aimed at combating anti-social behaviour linked to alcohol, they also reflect the growing challenges faced by Thanet's community safety team since last summer. The decision was ratified during a meeting of the council's cabinet last Thursday, following increasing concerns over public order and business impacts from local entrepreneurs who report being forced to close early due to intimidating behaviour.
The urgency for change has been highlighted by recent incidents on local beaches. Fights broke out in Broadstairs and Margate last Wednesday, while assaults were reported at Margate Railway Station. Subsequently, individuals - primarily aged between 16 and 18 from both Kent and London - were arrested on suspicion of various offences, including assault and affray.
Kent Police Chief Inspector Ian Swallow said that such behaviour would not be tolerated, as it ruins the enjoyment for others. Councillor Mike Garner described the decision to approve the PSPO as a "no-brainer", acknowledging the complex nature of the issue. East Thanet MP Polly Billington stressed the importance of these measures in supporting local businesses and promoting community wellbeing.