New order clamps down on begging and boozing
Maidstone council has taken action to reduce begging and drink-related anti-social behaviour in the town centre.
It has introduced a public spaces protection order (PSPO) for an area extending to Hart Street, Square Hill Road, Whatman Park and Knightrider Street.
Anyone misbehaving inside this zone by drinking alcohol can be ordered to stop and hand over any booze. Refusal could result in a £100 fixed penalty fine and a 24-hour ban on drinking within the PSPO area.
The order similarly bans begging, either directly, or suggestively by lying near a cash machine with a hat or cup out to receive donations. Again, offenders could be liable to a £100 fine.
The council has agreed to allow a two-week grace period – ending on Sunday, September 24 – during which offenders will be warned but not fined.
Cllr John Barned (Ukip), chairman of the communities, housing and environment committee, said: “The council has three key priorities for 2017 and one of these is ensuring the borough remains a clean and safe environment. We have been very successful in changing behaviours towards littering and are confident this will address the anti-social behaviour emerging around street drinking and begging in the town.”
Firms are said to be in support of the move. Ilsa Butler of One Maidstone, said: “It has become a real issue for businesses in the town. Shoppers often feel intimidated if they see a large collection of people drinking and behaving badly which affects our trade. Shoppers either choose not to come in or just don’t come back.”
Maidstone council said reports of ‘professional’ begging, where someone may be housed but still ask for money, was on the rise. The authority said this left shoppers unsure who they could trust. Instead, they are encour- aged to donate to charities supporting those in need.
Mark Hedges of Maidstone Police said: “Many visitors are unaware of professional begging. It is very difficult for people to differentiate between a person in genuine need and a professional beggar. By introducing these measures we can control anti-social behaviour and keep the areas as safe as possible for everyone.”