Chelmsley Wood, Solihull – Local police in Chelmsley Wood, in partnership with Solihull Council, have introduced a new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to tackle escalating anti-social behaviour in and around the bus interchange next to Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre.
The move follows a public consultation earlier this year, which received strong community support. The PSPO, now in effect, gives officers enhanced powers to address persistent anti-social issues that have negatively impacted the area in recent months.
Under the order, the following measures will be enforced:
- A ban on riding or using bicycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, motorbikes or quad bikes within the restricted zone without reasonable excuse.
- Powers for police to disperse groups of three or more individuals suspected of engaging in anti-social behaviour between 6pm and 6am.
- The authority to ask individuals to remove face coverings that conceal their identity if suspected of anti-social behaviour.
Failure to comply with the PSPO is a criminal offence, punishable by a maximum fine of £2,500. Offenders may instead receive a Fixed Penalty Notice of £100 – reduced to £75 if paid within seven days. Non-payment within 14 days may result in prosecution.
Chelmsley Wood’s Local Policing Inspector, Andy Bridgewater, said:
“We know what a negative impact anti-social behaviour can have on people and we’ve been dealing with these issues specifically around the bus interchange for a while.”
“Having a PSPO in place really supports us in the work we’re doing and the additional powers will help us clamp down on the problems affecting the community.”
Inspector Bridgewater also emphasised the importance of prevention:
“While people often think of anti-social behaviour as low-level, we know it can lead to more serious issues. We want to stop it at source rather than respond to the consequences.”
The council has committed to a two-tier response depending on the age of offenders and will adopt escalating penalties for repeat offences. Residents are encouraged to report incidents of anti-social behaviour to police via 101 or to Solihull Council’s Hotline on 0121 717 1500.