From Wednesday, 1 July, two popular UK seaside towns in Kent will enforce a year-round blanket ban on alcohol consumption in their high streets under a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). Anyone caught violating the order faces a fine of up to £100, which can be reduced if paid within 10 to 14 days. However, failure to pay could lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.
Scope of the Ban
The three-year PSPO, approved by Thanet District Council, targets anti-social behaviour linked to alcohol in Margate and Ramsgate. It also covers areas in Broadstairs, Cliftonville West, and other parts of Margate and Ramsgate, where authorities can demand the surrender of alcohol. The order aims to curb alcohol-related disorder, public urination, and defecation, according to the council's website.
Reasons Behind the Order
Kent Police reported fights on Broadstairs and Margate beaches last week, as well as assaults at Margate Railway Station. Some businesses in Thanet told BBC Radio Kent they had to close early due to anti-social behaviour, with one planning to move away because of intimidation. The PSPO is designed to address these persistent issues.
Local Reactions
East Thanet MP Polly Billington said after the approval on Thursday: "It's vital for our economy that people feel confident about keeping their doors open to their shop, and actually, for the wellbeing of our residents and our visitors that everybody feels safe." Councillor Heather Keen, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, added: "Our communities deserve safe, clean, and welcoming public spaces... If Cabinet agrees to implement these proposals, our safety teams and the police will have an effective tool to address persistent issues impacting our towns."
