BOY racers making residents’ lives a misery “will not be tolerated” a clamping-down councillor has warned, after police officers were granted powers to tackle the issue.
Julie Young, Colchester councillor responsible for housing and communities, has welcomed the introduction of a new Public Space Protection Order.
The legislation, which was approved following a consultation, means criminal action can now be taken against motorists causing a nuisance in the city.
As part of the three-year crackdown police officers will also be permitted to enforce action against a wide range of problems linked to car meets.
Council workers will also have the power to issue fines of £100, which could rise to £1,000 for those who fail to pay, and pursue court prosecutions.
Mrs Young said: “This PSPO sends a clear message that car cruising and the anti-social activities associated with it will not be tolerated.
“It should help reassure residents that such unreasonable behaviour is being addressed.
“Residents and businesses in known hot spot areas will, I’m sure, be pleased to know they will begin to receive intensive patrols to deter further anti-social behaviour.
“I would also urge people elsewhere in the borough to report any car cruising to the police or the council, to enable wider enforcement to take place.”
The new rules have come into force after the council became aware of the car park behind Leisure World, in Cowdray Avenue, being used for car meets.
During these gatherings, motorists would race, do doughnuts, and keep nearby residents awake with their vehicles’ engine noise and horns and by playing music.
The legislation also follows reports speed bumps in Smeaton Close, on Severalls Industrial Estate, were instead being used as ramps by dangerous racers.
Stuart Austin, inspector from Colchester’s Community Policing Team, said: “We will take robust action against anyone breaching the PSPO and fines will be issued.
“This is not about penalising law-abiding car enthusiasts but those who are driving dangerously and behaving anti-socially.”
Anyone with information about car cruising or dangerous driving in Colchester or surrounding areas is asked to call Essex Police on 101.
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