Crackdown planned on anti-social car cruising

The council said the district had been "plagued" by the car meets recently

Plans to tackle "dangerous" car cruising in part of West Yorkshire are being considered.

Councillors in Wakefield have been asked to approve a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to help deal with anti-social behaviour across the district, including organised car meetings.

Councillor Daniel Wilton said the district had recently been "plagued" by car cruises, in which drivers meet to show off or drive their vehicles.

The PSPO, which would give police and the council more powers to clamp down on those driving, spectating or organising such events, are due to be considered by councillors next week.

Wilton said: "It is not only dangerous, but has a detrimental effect on the quality of life and safety of those who live and work in our area.

"Everyone should feel safe in their local community. That's why we're working hard with local partners to tackle anti-social behaviour."

'Feel safer'

Wakefield Council said that in a recent public consultation, over 75% of people who responded supported the implementation of the order.

West Yorkshire Police was supportive of the proposed introduction of a three-year PSPO, the council said.

Meanwhile, the authority was also reviewing the powers it had available to tackle aggressive begging, substance misuse and anti-social gatherings.

That involved getting more enforcement officers onto the streets so people felt safer, a spokesperson said.

A cabinet meeting to discuss the orders is expected to take place on 21 October.

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