Heads-up, Reading: a crackdown on anti-social behaviour — including dangerous bike and scooter riding — will begin in just a few weeks after councillors approved a borough-wide Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO).
The PSPO, which will be enforced by Thames Valley Police and council officers, covers dog fouling, begging, street drinking and the anti-social use of e-bikes and e-scooters in public spaces.
While e-scooters and illegally modified e-bikes are already illegal in public spaces, the PSPO provides extra powers to stop riders who are purposely causing anxiety, distress or nuisance in public settings and tackle the worst behaviour.
Council officers will also be able to fine people for dog fouling and for failing to comply with a demand that a walker place and hold their dog on a lead.
Those who breach the PSPO will initially be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of up to £100. If the notice is not complied with, the person will then be prosecuted at Reading Magistrates Court, with a maximum fine of £1,000.
A report published last November says the PSPO will have a ‘soft launch’ aimed for Monday, 2 March, with full implementation beginning on Tuesday, 24 March, when it comes into full force.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
