Council passes abusive language crackdown order
Briefly

Thanet District Council has enacted a Public Spaces Protection Order to combat anti-social behaviour, particularly regarding foul language in public areas. The order allows fines for those who do not comply when asked by authorities. Councillor Heather Keen clarified that this is not a ban on swearing but targets language that causes distress. The PSPO is not new, with similar regulations existing in other regions. The initiative has garnered strong local support, and enforcement will begin after a legal notice period, with public signage to outline regulations.
Thanet District Council has approved a Public Spaces Protection Order aimed at combating anti-social behaviour, specifically allowing for fines related to foul language in public spaces when requested by authorities.
Councillor Heather Keen emphasized that the order does not constitute a blanket ban on swearing but targets foul and abusive language that causes harassment, alarm, or distress.
The existing PSPO has been in place since 2018 and is similar to those in other areas, with local feedback indicating strong support for safety measures from residents and businesses.
The PSPO will be enforced after the legal notice period, with signage to inform the public about the rules and actions to be taken by enforcement officers.
Read at www.bbc.com
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