Tough rules to clamp down on bad behaviour

A COUNCIL is bringing in new powers to clamp down on anti-social behaviour – including “car meets”

The new measures come after Sunderland City Council renewed the citywide “public spaces protection order” (PSPO) last month following a public consultation.

The changes came in on May 1 and mean that the council can give fixed penalty notices (FPNs) worth £100 to anyone not complying with the order – rising to £1,000 if not paid for within 14 days and court action is taken.

Behaviour prohibited includes speeding, racing, stunts or sounding horns. Playing loud music or using threatening behaviour in a car cruising context can also result in a FPN.

Also covered by the new measures are smoking and vaping in play areas and dumping shopping trolleys. Dog walkers will need to reduce the length of a lead when asked by a council dog officer.

The council is also including e-bikes or e-scooters in a ban that stops skateboards, scooters and bikes from being used to damage property or cause a nuisance.

People can also be made to provide personal details when asked by a council officer. The rules are in addition to measures blocking the use of alcohol and psychoactive substances in public places.

Peter McIntyre, texecutive director of city development, said: “We know that residents want to see more enforcement action to tackle antisocial behaviour in the city.

“The new powers came into force on May 1 and will help clamp down on a range of anti-social behaviour which residents are concerned about and have raised with us.”

People are also reminded that dog exclusion zones are now in force on Roker Beach and Seaburn until the end of September.

For further information on the dog exclusion zones see: https://www. sunderland.gov.uk/dog-control, while to report anti-social behaviour: https://www.sunderland.gov.uk/report-it