A new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) scheme has been launched by Barking and Dagenham Council with sexual harassment being added to the list of prohibited behaviours.
A thorough consultation earlier in the year, saw 845 of people who responded in favour of the PSPO scheme, which now how prohibits the following behaviours:
- Begging
- Spitting
- Urinating
- Causing harassment, alarm or distress
- Drinking alcohol in public
- Sexual harassment
- Amplified noise and public speaking
In Barking and Dagenham, there are four PSPO areas: Barking Town Centre, the Heathway, Broad Street and a new addition of Gale Street.
Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “PSPOs play a huge role in reducing antisocial behaviour in our hotspot areas. And as part of the renewal, we know how important it was to include sexual harassment to help improve women’s safety.
“I’d like to thank all the residents who took part in the consultation and supporting the renewal of the scheme and I hope you continue to see a difference.”
Superintendent David Rhodes for Barking and Dagenham said: The PSPO provides our officers with another tool at their disposal to challenge anti-social behaviour, including sexual harassment in public spaces.
“Community crime fighting is how we cut crime, rebuild trust and restore our bond with communities. Anti-social behaviour in our community is not acceptable and we are committed to doing more to tackle it in all its forms and challenge perpetrators of sexual harassment.
“By working together with Barking and Dagenham Council, this PSPO will help tackle the behaviour and make our neighbourhoods safer.”
The council has also had issues with people using amplified speakers in Barking Town Centre and the new PSPO will also prohibit this.
If an individual is caught doing one of these behaviours, they will be issued with £100 Fixed Penalty Notice or a fine of up to £1,000.