New powers to tackle anti-social behaviour look set to be implemented across more Dagenham streets following overwhelming support during a public consultation.

In total, 627 people responded to Barking and Dagenham Council’s survey on whether to apply a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) around Dagenham Heathway.

Ninety-seven per cent (609) of respondents were in favour of new powers being implemented, which are used to control behaviour that is either having, or is likely to have, a harmful effect on a local community’s quality of life.

The PSPO conditions apply to everyone and can be enforced by council enforcement officers or the police.

Jonathon Toy, Operational Director for Enforcement Services, said: “The majority of residents who responded to the survey support the idea of a PSPO being used in the area.

“While it won’t solve all the problems, it will certainly give us the power to clamp down on the few individuals who cause misery for the majority of our law abiding residents.”

The consultation, which closed on 8 April, follows the launch of two new PSPOs – one covering Broad Street and the surrounding roads in Dagenham, and one covering Barking town centre.

The orders mean fixed penalty notices can be handed out on the spot and can be issued for those caught causing anti-social behaviour including drinking alcohol in a public place, spitting or urinating.

Since the two PSPOs came into power, officers have issued 19 on the spot fines.

The maximum fine for breaching a PSPO after conviction is £1,000 with the possibility of a Criminal Behaviour Order.