New measures have been announced by the Government to tackle antisocial behaviour, including introducing increased fines for fly-tipping, littering and graffiti.
Under the Anti-Social Behaviour Action Plan, 16 areas in England and Wales will be funded to support new ‘hotspot’ police and enforcement patrols in areas with the highest rates of antisocial behaviour, or trial a new ‘Immediate Justice’ scheme to deliver swift and visible punishments.
Under the scheme, those found committing antisocial behaviour will be made to repair the damage they inflicted on victims and communities, with an ambition for them to start work as soon as 48 hours after their offence.
Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove also announced measures to reopen empty shops, by giving councils new powers to quickly take control and sell off the rental rights for empty buildings.
Cllr Nesil Caliskan, Chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said councils are committed to preventing antisocial behaviour and protecting residents from offenders, who can make the lives of the people they target a misery.
She added: “With much of the plan enforcement focused, councils will always take a balanced and proportionate approach to using the tools at their disposal to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour.
“However this often requires a policing or community safety officer presence to enforce the restrictions, and so it is vital government ensures this and all measures in the plan are adequately resourced.”