Police have launched a targeted operation against boy racers in Snodland and East Peckham following mounting concerns over anti-social driving, excessive speeding, and noise disturbances caused by loud exhausts.
Officers intensified patrols at known hotspots last weekend, focusing on the A228 stretch between Snodland and Halling, as well as the East Peckham by-pass, after numerous complaints from local residents about dangerous driving and disruptive gatherings.
During the two-day operation, police stopped several vehicles suspected of breaching a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) currently in place across Tonbridge and Malling borough. This order strictly prohibits car-cruising activities within the area.
In total, officers recorded the details of 15 vehicles believed to be violating the PSPO and forwarded them to the local authority for further action. Drivers found guilty of breaching the order could face a £100 fine.
One driver was issued a Section 59 notice for driving in a manner deemed anti-social or careless. Under this notice, if either the driver or the vehicle is caught engaging in similar behaviour within the next 12 months, the car can be seized.
Sergeant Nick Atkinson, who led the operation, emphasised the dangers posed by reckless drivers: “Anti-social motorists can severely impact upon people’s daily lives, whether they are causing a nuisance at unauthorised gatherings or posing a risk to other road users by driving in an irresponsible or dangerous manner.
“Our officers remain vigilant for offenders. Anyone caught committing these offences will be challenged and risk being issued with a traffic offence report, being arrested, or having their vehicles seized.
“While there is nothing wrong with having nice cars, to be racing up and down the road and revving your engine is not acceptable, and will undoubtedly upset the residents who live nearby,” he added.
The crackdown follows numerous complaints from residents, who have described the noise and dangerous driving as “terrifying” and “a regular nuisance,” particularly on weekend evenings. One local recounted a harrowing experience from last summer when they were overtaken at “horrific speed” during an impromptu boy racer meet.
Another resident voiced concerns about the persistent noise: “The noise of engines revving and exhausts popping coming from the direction of the A228 at Snodland now seems a regular thing on a Saturday night. I’m all for people having fun but not at the risk of others’ safety.”
In addition to on-the-ground patrols, police are encouraging residents to sign up for My Community Voice, a two-way engagement tool that allows locals to report issues like anti-social driving, drug-taking, or vandalism directly to officers. The free service also provides real-time updates from police about incidents and concerns in their area.
As police continue to step up patrols, they are urging anyone witnessing reckless driving or disruptive gatherings to report the behaviour, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring community safety and peace.
