New policy in Camberley aims to crackdown on antisocial behaviour from “intimidating” youth groups, fining offenders up to £1,000.
Surrey Heath Council introduced these new powers after police had used dispersal orders in Camberley recently over three weekends. These actions responded to several antisocial behavior issues.
The council wants residents to know that “antisocial behaviour is not tolerated here.” You could face a big fine for offenses, costing up to £1,000.
A Camberley councillor, Shaun Garrett, said the town seemed “heaving” with many youth, about 50 to 60, of secondary school age. He added that not all cause harm, but the groups feel intimidating.
Police used dispersal orders on recent weekends beginning January 25, including February 1 and February 8. This falls under the Antisocial Behaviour Act.
Ryan Scott, a police commander, sent a letter to all parents and carers in Camberley on February 6. He wrote that bad behavior really hurts the town and also hurts local businesses.
The council had a meeting on Tuesday, February 11, finalizing a new antisocial behavior policy. This ensures the council handles the problems, supports victims of anti-social behavior, and helps police reduce offenses.
Alan Ashbery spoke about the council’s focus, stating that keeping the area safe remains a key goal. Given that residents worry about antisocial behavior, this policy shows the council’s commitment to deal with problems effectively.
The new antisocial behavior policy has a definition that describes what antisocial behavior means, drawing from the Home Office’s definition. This states ASB damages another person’s life.
The council says this process is flexible and officers can change the order of things to solve problems efficiently and minimise risk when doing so.
The documents explain how to deal with the reports, outlining four stages for handling cases, running from complaints to closing the case. A Community Safety Officer responds quickly to the problems, attempting contact within five working days.
The policy also outlines organization roles, detailing how each group helps reduce antisocial behavior. The Community Safety team works to reduce severe issues and Housing Associations deal with tenant-related problems.
In May 2024, they introduced a new charge: a Fixed Penalty Notice up to £1,000 for antisocial behavior offenses. These offenses include fly tipping or littering, as well as graffiti and fly posting.