Town centre's anti-social behaviour order extended

The order was first introduced in Thatcham town centre in November 2022

A restrictive town centre order has been extended for another three years after it proved effective in helping prevent anti-social behaviour, a local authority has said.

West Berkshire Council said the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Thatcham town centre would remain in place until at least November 2028.

First introduced in November 2022, the order has supported police and improved the safety and wellbeing of residents, visitors and businesses, said the council.

Tom McCann, the authority's public safety and community engagement lead, said: "The extension ensures that we continue to protect our community and maintain a welcoming environment for all who live, work and visit Thatcham town centre."

The order allows authorised officers to direct people causing nuisance, harassment, alarm or distress to leave and not return for up to 24 hours.

People who do not comply can be given fixed penalty notices of up to £100 but could also be prosecuted and fined up to £1,000.