THURROCK Council says an extended public protection order that covers the centre of Grays will be based on 'common sense' and won't impinge on organised community events,

Last month the council authorised a new order, allowing enforcement against anti-social behaviour across a wider area.

Council leader Cllr Richard Bingley said: "Anti-social behaviour in town centres is a scourge that blights the lives of ordinary people as they go about their daily lives.

"This order shows just how seriously we take this menace and gives us the powers we need to stop those committing acts of anti-social behaviour in their tracks, immediately move them on and prevent them from returning to Grays for 48 hours.

"If they do not obey the officers, they will pay the price and be issued with an on-the-spot fine.

"We have no tolerance for those who think that it is acceptable to drink, shout, swear, spit or intimidate others on the streets of Grays."

The order, while widely welcomed, also raised concerns in some quarters.

In the past volunteers at events in the town have found themselves on the 'wrong side of the law' at community events from enforcement officers who have taken an 'over enthusiastic attitude to the rules. For example, a group selling mulled wine at a Christmas fundraising event in Grays Town park were told they were breaking the rules and couldn't do it.

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Fears were also expressed about use of music or microphones in connection with events – which have included large concerts in both the Town Park and Grays Riverside Park.

However, when Thurrock Nub News put those concerns to the council after they were raised with us, a spokesperson for the authority delivered a reassuring message.

It says: "The Order is in place to tackle anti-social behaviour within Grays town centre and so only prohibits behaviour that is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to any other person and not events or activities that foster community spirit and engagement, which as a Council we wish to encourage.

"The Council's approach will be based on common sense and so organised events such as Remembrance Day, national days and festivals and the annual Christmas Tree light switching on celebration will be unaffected.

"The PSPO makes it clear that prior written permission from the Council can be obtained for the use of amplification equipment."

The up-to-date PSPO and map can be found on our website at: Overview | Public space protection orders | Thurrock Council