For the third consecutive weekend, a dispersal order will be reintroduced to address the issue of nuisance vehicles in Larkfield and Snodland.
Effective from 6pm on Friday, 16 February until Sunday, 18 February 2024, the order will encompass specific areas including Brook Street, Sortmill Road, and the bypass in Snodland, as well as New Hythe Lane, Leybourne Way, Lunsford Lane, Papyrus Way, and Bellingham Way in Larkfield.
The conditions of the order replicate those imposed during the previous two weekends (2-4 February and 9-11 February) in the same locations. This includes coverage of side roads, public and private car parks, as well as industrial units.
The decision to implement the order comes in response to an escalation in community complaints regarding nuisance vehicles and reckless driving behaviours. Under the order, law enforcement officers are empowered to intervene and disperse individuals engaged in anti-social conduct, thus mitigating the impact on the local community.
Inspector Terry Newman, representing the West Kent Community Safety Unit, expressed concerns regarding the risks posed by such behaviours to road users and the overall well-being of the community. He stated, “Following a number of reports of anti-social driving in west Kent, including drifting and driving at excessive speed, a dispersal order is in place for a third weekend running.
Newman emphasized that the order grants officers additional authority to address individuals causing disturbances, with the possibility of arrest for those who persist in violating the order by returning to the area. Moreover, individuals engaging in such behaviours risk having their vehicles confiscated.
In collaboration with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, Kent Police aims to provide evidence of any breaches of the Public Spaces Protection Order, enabling fines to be issued retrospectively.
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