Should Balaclava Wearers Face £100 Fines?

The recent call from Labour MP for Darlington, Lola McEvoy, for enhanced police powers to curb the activities of balaclava-wearing gangs reflects growing concerns over anti-social behaviour in the town. McEvoy's proposal includes the introduction of a public space protection order (PSPO) that could impose £100 fines on individuals wearing face coverings intended to intimidate or harass others. This initiative aims to tackle the alarming rise in incidents reported by residents and local authorities.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In Darlington, the issue of anti-social behaviour linked to gangs wearing balaclavas has escalated, prompting local MP Lola McEvoy to advocate for stricter regulations. Reports indicate that police have recorded numerous incidents involving these gangs, creating a climate of fear among residents. McEvoy's proposed PSPO would empower both the police and the council to impose fines on anyone deemed to be wearing face coverings in a threatening manner. The initiative has received support from local residents, including a retired police officer and a business owner, who have witnessed the disruptive behaviour firsthand.

Key takeaways

• Lola McEvoy is pushing for a public space protection order to combat balaclava-wearing gangs in Darlington.
• The proposed measure would impose £100 fines for intimidating behaviour associated with face coverings.
• Residents report a significant rise in anti-social incidents linked to these gangs.

Timeline: how we got here

Over the past year, Darlington has seen a troubling increase in anti-social behaviour, particularly involving youths wearing balaclavas. Key milestones leading to the current situation include:

• July 2023: Reports of over 800 cases of anti-social behaviour in Darlington are logged.
• October 2023: Lola McEvoy publicly advocates for a PSPO to tackle the issue.
• Recent months: Similar measures are adopted in parts of Surrey, Essex, and the West Midlands.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent proposal for a PSPO in Darlington marks a significant step in addressing community concerns over safety and intimidation. It reflects a broader movement among local authorities to employ similar strategies in other regions.

What was already established

Anti-social behaviour has been an ongoing issue in Darlington, with police documenting numerous incidents. Residents have expressed their fears about safety in public spaces, particularly parks, where families feel threatened by the presence of balaclava-wearing youths.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For residents in Darlington, the proposed measures could restore a sense of safety in public spaces. Parents, in particular, have voiced concerns about taking their children to parks, which may lead to a broader impact on community engagement and local businesses.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses, especially those situated near areas with reported anti-social behaviour, may see an improvement if the PSPO is implemented successfully. A safer environment could encourage more foot traffic and patronage.

Policy and regulation

The discussions surrounding the PSPO in Darlington may influence other councils across the UK to adopt similar measures. It highlights a growing trend of local authorities taking proactive steps to address public safety concerns.

Numbers that matter

• 800: Number of anti-social behaviour cases reported in Darlington from July to October 2023.
• £100: Potential fine for individuals wearing balaclavas in a manner deemed intimidating.
• Dozens: Incidents of anti-social behaviour involving balaclavas logged by police over the last year.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Public Space Protection Order (PSPO): A legal measure that allows local councils to restrict activities in public spaces to prevent anti-social behaviour.
• Anti-social behaviour: Actions that cause harassment, alarm, or distress to people, often involving vandalism or public disorder.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Local authorities will likely convene to discuss the introduction of the PSPO, weighing its potential impacts and gathering public feedback.

Medium term (1–6 months)

If approved, the PSPO could be implemented within months, with local police beginning to enforce the new regulations across Darlington.

Signals to watch

• Public consultations regarding the PSPO and community safety measures.
• Updates from Darlington Borough Council on the status of the PSPO proposal.
• Changes in reported anti-social behaviour incidents following the implementation of any new measures.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about local council meetings and decisions regarding public safety measures.
• Report any incidents of anti-social behaviour to the police to help build a comprehensive picture of the issue.

Don’t

• Ignore intimidating behaviour; report it to ensure community safety.
• Assume that nothing can be done; community engagement can lead to positive change.

Checklist

• Understand the local laws regarding public safety and anti-social behaviour.
• Engage with community groups or forums to discuss safety concerns.
• Monitor the outcomes of the proposed PSPO and its enforcement.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the proposed PSPO aims to enhance public safety, there are potential risks associated with its implementation. Critics may argue that such measures could disproportionately affect specific groups, leading to concerns about civil liberties. Additionally, the effectiveness of the PSPO in genuinely reducing anti-social behaviour remains uncertain, pending successful enforcement and community buy-in.

Bottom line

The push for a public space protection order in Darlington signifies a growing recognition of the issues posed by anti-social behaviour linked to balaclava-wearing gangs. If successful, this initiative could pave the way for enhanced safety in public spaces across the UK, addressing the urgent concerns of residents and local businesses.

FAQs

What is a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO)?

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) allows local councils to impose restrictions on activities in public areas to prevent anti-social behaviour, such as wearing intimidating face coverings.

How much is the fine for wearing a balaclava under the proposed PSPO?

The proposed fine for wearing a balaclava in an intimidating manner could be £100, aimed at deterring anti-social behaviour in Darlington.

What has prompted the MP to call for these measures?

Growing concerns over the rise in anti-social behaviour linked to balaclava-wearing youths have prompted MP Lola McEvoy to advocate for stronger local laws to enhance public safety.