Car cruising may be banned under new order

Car cruising is set to be banned across West Northamptonshire over rising concerns about anti-social behaviour.

The Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) would allow the council and Northamptonshire Police to take more effective action against nuisance car activities.

West Northamptonshire Council said events had been taking place on the county's roads for several years, while police said they created a "significant demand" on resources due to worried residents calling them.

The largest event to date included more over 160 cars and several hundred spectators in March 2024, police said.

Locations regularly used for meets include the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal, the A45 off junction 16 of the M1, the Sixfields roundabout in Northampton and the A43 Moulton bypass, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

According to the council, features of car cruising include driving at excessive speed, revving engines, driving in a convoy, racing, performing stunts and causing obstruction on a public highway.

PSPOs are powers used by councils and their partners to tackle anti-social behaviour in a defined public space.

The order would apply to all land within the West Northamptonshire boundary.

Individuals could be found in breach if they participate in any car cruising activity as a passenger or driver, or congregate to spectate at such an event.

Failure to comply carries a maximum £1,000 fine if convicted by a magistrates' court.

Officers may also issue a £100 fixed penalty notice to anyone they have reasonable cause to believe has breached the order.

The council's new Reform UK cabinet will meet for the first time on 3 June to discuss the proposed PSPO measures.

If approved, the order will be made for a maximum period of three years with the opportunity to extend.

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