New restrictions allowing officers to order people to remove face coverings, including balaclavas, could be introduced in Nottingham city centre before the end of the year.
The proposed powers are aimed at people using face coverings to conceal their identity while committing crime or anti-social behaviour, or to intimidate or cause harassment, alarm or distress.
Under the plans, authorised officers would be able to require an individual to remove a face covering where they reasonably believed it was being used for one of those purposes.
The proposals would not amount to a blanket ban on face coverings.
People wearing coverings for legitimate reasons, including religious or cultural purposes, health, work, weather conditions or personal safety, would not be affected.
More than 2,000 responses were submitted during a public consultation on the proposals, which closed on 14 August.
Nottinghamshire Police says the restrictions are expected to be introduced before the end of 2026, subject to a decision by Nottingham City Council.
Police say the additional powers could also assist officers trying to identify suspects using the city’s CCTV network and facial recognition technology.
The proposals come amid concerns about individuals deliberately concealing their identities while involved in crime and anti-social behaviour in the city centre.
A final decision on whether the restrictions will be introduced now rests with Nottingham City Council.
