Consultation launched on new powers to tackle vehicle anti-social behaviour

Central Bedfordshire Council is asking residents, businesses and visitors to take part in a public consultation on proposed new powers aimed at tackling vehicle-related anti-social behaviour.

The council is consulting on the introduction of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which would target issues including car meets, street racing, excessive engine noise, obstruction of highways and intimidating behaviour.

According to Bedfordshire Police, Central Bedfordshire accounts for nearly half of all reported vehicle-related anti-social behaviour incidents across the county, with figures continuing to rise year-on-year.

If approved, the PSPO would apply across the whole of Central Bedfordshire and give police additional enforcement powers, including issuing £100 Fixed Penalty Notices or pursuing court action for non-compliance. Enforcement could also take place at static car meets and where incidents are captured using CCTV.

The proposed order would be in place for three years, with a formal review required before any extension.

Cllr Liz Childs, Executive Member for Communities at Central Bedfordshire Council, said the measures were needed to address ongoing disruption.

“Too many of our residents are having their daily lives disrupted by persistent nuisance vehicle behaviour, particularly late at night and at weekends,” she said. “This proposed PSPO is about giving the police the right tools to deal with these issues more effectively, protect public safety and improve the wellbeing of our communities.

“This is not about targeting responsible drivers, but about addressing behaviour that causes real harm and distress.”

Enforcement would be led by Bedfordshire Police under a formal Memorandum of Understanding with the council, with additional support from CCTV where appropriate.

The consultation is open from 16 January until 13 March 2026, with responses invited online at
www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations.

If approved, enforcement of the PSPO would begin in October 2026.