Restrictions on face coverings such as balaclavas could be introduced in Nottingham city centre before the end of the year as part of measures intended to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
People breaching the proposed restrictions could receive on-the-spot fines. The measure is intended to prevent those involved in disorder from concealing their identity.
The plans also include high-visibility police patrols, further enforcement action and changes to Old Market Square.
They follow a survey in which more than 1,700 residents and 160 businesses were asked which parts of the city centre caused them the greatest concern and what action could improve their experience.
The work is being carried out through Operation Reclaim, a partnership launched in May involving Nottinghamshire Police, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Nottingham City Council, homelessness charity Framework and city centre business organisation It’s in Nottingham.
The operation is targeting issues including youth anti-social behaviour, drug dealing, rough sleeping, illegal e-bikes, aggressive begging and retail crime.
Police said 821 arrests had been made since the operation began, while 16 Criminal Behaviour Orders had been issued. Some of the orders prohibit offenders from entering the city centre.
A further 35 young people identified as causing repeated anti-social behaviour have been placed on a police watchlist.
Councillor Matt Shannon, Executive Member for Community Protection, Neighbourhoods and Equalities at the city council said:
“We would like to thank the more than 2,200 people who responded to our consultation on the proposed introduction of a face-covering restriction as part of the city centre Public Spaces Protection Order.
“We will now review all the consultation responses before putting a formal proposal to the Executive Board for a decision in September.
“We welcome the strong public support shown through the consultation. The findings will help inform the proposal considered by the Executive Board, including further details about how any restriction would operate. We will continue working closely with Nottinghamshire Police and our partners as the proposal is developed.”
Officers have visited their parents or guardians to explain the potential consequences of their behaviour. Police said reported anti-social behaviour involving the group had since fallen by 42 per cent.
The partnership is using the Home Office’s Clear, Hold, Build approach, which combines enforcement with measures intended to prevent criminal activity from returning.
Nottingham City Council could introduce additional lighting and CCTV in areas identified as causing concern, alongside wider improvements to public spaces.
Further work will include targeted mentoring for children affected by serious violence and support for people sleeping rough.
