Mask wearers could be handed £1,000 fine - council

The measures are being mooted to tackle anti-social behaviour in places including Hoylake

People caught wearing masks to hide their face in a borough's seaside resorts could soon be handed a £1,000 fine.

Wirral Council is seeking to clamp down on persistent anti-social behaviour affecting large parts of West Kirby and into Hoylake.

The local authority is considering introducing a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) which would give it more powers.

If it is introduced those wearing face coverings to try hide their identity could be fined.

The PSPO would also include dispersal powers, which means anyone in the area in a gathering of four or more who is suspected to be involved in anti-social behaviour could be asked to leave and stay away for 24 hours, unless they have a reasonable excuse to be there.

The council said similar orders in other areas, including parts of West Kirby, has been effective in reducing levels of crime.

Mask exemptions

Helen Cameron, the council's communities and tourism lead, said the actions and behaviours of a small minority of people could have "a disproportionately negative impact on many residents’ feelings of safety".

This affected their quality of life and confidence "to get out and enjoy leisure time and time spent socialising in the area around where they live", she added.

A consultation has now been launched to ask residents for their views.

The proposed PSPO would be in addition to the existing order covering West Kirby Beach and Cubbins Green, which is due to expire in September.

Some face coverings are exempt including those required by law or worn for religious or health reasons relating to an existing medical condition or vulnerability, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.