Major crackdown on street racing planned

Crackdown on racing and anti-social racing on roads near Birmingham Airport proposed

Sam Greenway - Local Democracy Reporter |

A major crackdown on illegal street racing near Birmingham Airport is being proposed.

Council decision-makers will decide whether to introduce a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) on Damson Parkway, Elmdon, and Bickenhill Parkway, Marston Green, which have been blighted by dangerous and anti-social activity. 

A Solihull Council report says: “In recent years street racing has been a persistent and dangerous issue within the West Midlands region, posing significant risks to public safety and community wellbeing. 

“In response to the prevalence of street racing in parts of Solihull proposals have been developed with key partners for the implementation of a PSPO aimed at curbing street racing and associated behaviours within designated areas of the borough.”

The report says the anti-social behaviour includes “excessive noise, reckless driving, and intimidation of passers-by”.

“These activities not only endanger participants and spectators but also disrupt the lives of those living nearby and undermine the safe use of public spaces,” council officers say.

Action is needed for the two key roads as they were found to be “disproportionately affected” based on analysis from police calls made over a three year period, officers write.

“The PSPO will be enforced through a graduated approach led by West Midlands Police, ensuring responses are proportionate and targeted,” the report adds.

“In most cases, a first breach of the order will result in a warning, followed by the issuing of a fixed penalty notice of £100 for further breaches, with prosecution considered where non-compliance persists.”

The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 gives local authorities the power to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

If introduced the PSPO would be in place for three years and among the banned activities would be:

Failure to comply with a PSPO is a criminal offence carrying a maximum penalty of a £2,500 fine.

The decision on whether or not to introduce the PSPO will be made by Councillor Wazma Qais, the cabinet portfolio holder for communities, at the next decision session on Wednesday, March 18.

The councillor introduced a PSPO in Chelmsley Wood last year after anti-social behaviour there.

The virtual meeting will be available to view on the council’s website solihull.gov.uk from 6pm.

 

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