Thanet District Council (TDC) has recently enacted a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) aimed at addressing rising anti-social behavior within its jurisdiction. This significant legislative move was prompted by mounting concerns over disorderly conduct, particularly in popular tourist destinations such as Margate, Ramsgate, and Broadstairs. The PSPO, which allows for the issuing of fines for the use of foul or abusive language when requested by police or council officers, is part of a broader initiative to ensure the safety and comfort of residents and visitors alike.
During a cabinet meeting held in Margate, council members took the opportunity to challenge and dismiss recent media reports that claimed the council was attempting to impose a blanket ban on swearing. Councillor Heather Keen of the Labour party staunchly refuted these allegations, characterizing them as “disingenuous,” “inaccurate,” and primarily designed to attract sensationalist attention. Keen further clarified that the regulation concerning foul and abusive language only comes into play when such language causes harassment, alarm, or distress to another individual, ensuring that casual swearing falls outside of this purview.
It is important to note that while the newest implementation of the PSPO has elicited public interest, protection orders are not novel in this area; a similar order has been in place since 2018. The presence of such regulations is also common across the United Kingdom, with comparable measures established in locales including Canterbury and Dartford. Despite the historical context, TDC faced backlash in August 2024 when attempts to renew and modify their existing PSPO met with a potential legal challenge from The Free Speech Union. This organization raised alarms about potential violations of human rights inherent in the proposed changes.
In response to public outcry and the legal concerns raised, TDC initiated a consultation process, sought community feedback, and ultimately found that the new PSPO provisions received “overwhelming support” from local residents and businesses. Councillor Keen emphasized that ensuring the safety of residents remains a top priority, with consistent feedback highlighting this need.
Upon the implementation of the PSPO, a TDC spokesperson stated that the new order would formally come into effect following a legally mandated notice period. Clear signage outlining the rules will be displayed at strategic locations, designed to inform the community effectively. Enforcement officers are expected to take a measured approach; they will engage with individuals found engaging in anti-social behavior at first, reserving the issuance of fines for instances where such behavior continues despite warnings.
This approach reflects a broader trend across various jurisdictions to balance law enforcement with community engagement, aiming to foster a safe environment without overly punitive measures. The council is poised to manage this transition carefully, ensuring that the rights of individuals are upheld while addressing the legitimate concerns residents have regarding public safety and quality of life.
Following the enactment of this Public Spaces Protection Order, Thanet District Council continues to maintain transparency and communication with the public regarding its objectives and the processes involved. Community engagement remains essential, as does the cautious implementation of the PSPO in fostering a respectful, hospitable environment across the district.
This ongoing dialogue between local authorities and the community underscores the council’s effort to mitigate anti-social behavior while safeguarding the freedoms of expression, particularly in a diverse and tourist-friendly landscape. The implementation of the PSPO marks a proactive step by the Thanet District Council to enhance public order in a manner that is both respectful and considerate of individual rights.
