Full support for crackdown on anti-social behavior

Authorities in Felixstowe are set to implement new measures aimed at tackling ongoing anti-social behaviour, including vandalism and littering. During a recent East Suffolk Council cabinet meeting, members unanimously approved a public spaces protection order (PSPO) to cover the town's coastline, effective from 13 December.

Landguard and View Point car parks were highlighted as hotspots where dangerous driving, racing, and revving of engines frequently occur.

Jan Candy, the council's Liberal Democrat cabinet member for community, stated, "Felixstowe residents have long faced repeated issues with unsafe driving and excessive noise in several car parks across the town."

The PSPO will empower police and council officers to issue warnings, fines, and, if necessary, make arrests. This measure is set to remain in force for three years.

Seamus Bennett, Liberal Democrat councillor for Eastern Felixstowe, commented, "People are losing sleep due to these disturbances, affecting both their health and mental wellbeing. If successful, this initiative will allow residents to rest easier and improve life across the town."

According to data from Port of Felixstowe Police, officers have responded 139 times to reports of anti-social behaviour since 2022. Insp Colin Clack added, "This provides us with an additional enforcement option. Our priority is always to educate first; many individuals causing disturbances are not aware of the impact of their actions."

Author: Noah Whitman