Nearly 400 people had their say on new measures to help tackle anti-social behaviour across Stafford Borough.

It was treble the number who took part in the previous consultation on implementing a ‘Public Spaces Protection Order’ - and will see the new provisions being introduced in December.

The new measures require the removal of face coverings where they are being used in connection with ASB, criminal activity or behaviour causing harassment, alarm or distress - a move that was supported by more than 90 percent of those who responded to the survey. If a person refuses to remove the covering they will receive a £100 fine.

But Stafford Borough Council stressed that people with face coverings who were not looking to cause trouble will have nothing to worry about.  

A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) - is designed to tackle activity that is having a negative impact in an area. Other provisions in the PSPO are aimed at, for example, stopping people climbing on the roofs of buildings in the town, drinking alcohol on the streets, and for those not cleaning up their dog’s mess in public areas.

Around 390 people took part in a six-week consultation this summer which received wide-spread publicity with the proposed ‘face covering ban’ making the headlines.

The consultation stated: “The Council is considering a new restriction across the Borough that would prohibit the wearing of face coverings that substantially obscure the face, only where they are worn in circumstances likely to:

• Cause harassment, alarm or distress or
• Facilitate anti-social behaviour or criminal activity

PSPOs are reviewed every three years.

Councillor Jill Hood, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “We received reports of people being ‘alarmed’ and ‘intimidated’ when confronted by those with face masks. The coverings can also make it difficult for CCTV operatives and witnesses to identify those involved in criminal activity and I’m very pleased that of those who took part in the consultation, 92 percent supported putting this new provision in place.”

She added: “Overall this was a fantastic response and thank you to everyone who took part and made their voice heard so that we can continue helping to tackle issues that blight our area.”

More on Public Spaces Protection Orders from www.staffordbc.gov.uk/pspo.

Press Release Number 6329