Stronger Powers to Tackle Antisocial Behaviour in Nuneaton
One of the concerns I hear most often from residents across Nuneaton is antisocial behaviour. Whether it's off-road bikes and modified e-bikes causing danger and nuisance, alcohol-related disorder, intimidation in public spaces, or shoplifting that impacts local businesses, these issues can leave people feeling less safe in their own communities.
That is why I welcome the introduction of this Labour government’s new Respect Orders, which are now in force and give police and local authorities stronger powers to crack down on persistent antisocial behaviour and act against repeat offenders.
For too long, communities have had to put up with a small minority of individuals who repeatedly disrupt local neighbourhoods, parks, high streets and public spaces. Respect Orders are designed to help tackle exactly that problem. They will allow courts to ban offenders from specific activities linked to their behaviour, while also requiring action to address the underlying causes of offending, such as drug or alcohol treatment where appropriate.
Crucially, these new orders have real enforcement behind them. Breaching a Respect Order is a criminal offence, meaning offenders can face arrest, fines, community sentences and, in the most serious cases, imprisonment. This gives local agencies stronger tools to intervene before antisocial behaviour becomes entrenched and causes further harm to residents and businesses.
The new measures form part of this Labour Government's flagship Crime and Policing Act, which represents one of the biggest packages of crime and policing reforms for decades. Alongside Respect Orders, the legislation strengthens powers available to police, councils and community partners to tackle antisocial behaviour, protect victims and support safer neighbourhoods.
In Nuneaton, I know many residents are particularly concerned about nuisance off-road bikes, antisocial behaviour in and around the town centre, and the impact that persistent offending can have on local businesses and community confidence. While there is no single solution, these new powers will help ensure that repeat offenders face meaningful consequences while also providing opportunities to address the causes of their behaviour.
Everyone deserves to feel safe when walking through our town centre, visiting local parks, using community facilities or simply going about their daily lives. Residents should be able to enjoy public spaces without fear of intimidation, persistent disruption or criminal behaviour.
I will continue working with Warwickshire Police, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, North Warwickshire Borough Council, local partners, businesses and community groups to ensure residents' concerns are heard and that we make full use of every available tool to tackle antisocial behaviour.
Restoring respect for our communities starts with safer streets. These new powers are an important step towards delivering that for Nuneaton.