New rules for Kent’s coasts starting tomorrow

The Coastal Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) 2023 aims to protect the area’s wildlife and prevent antisocial behavior that can ruin people’s trips to the beach and Kents coasts.

Starting tomorrow, there will be new rules implemented to ensure that all visitors to the coastline have an enjoyable experience.

People who fail to comply with these new regulations that come into effect tomorrow when asked to do so by police of council enforcement officers may receive a £100 fixed penalty notice.

Severe breaches of the new rules may even land you in court or with a fine of up to £1,000.

Marie Royle, the Deputy Director of People at Canterbury City Council has emphasised that these common-sense rules are intended to safeguard the coastal area and its wildlife, which represents a true gem in the area’s collection of treasures.

Furthermore, these rules will ensure that everyone can enjoy their time at the beach whilst still maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all.

What are these new rules?

• the harming of wildlife (sea angling and lawful bait digging for personal use excepted)
  catapults.
• jumping from Whitstable Harbour, Herne Bay Pier and breakwater and Hampton Pier
• urinating or defecating in public.
• use of disposable barbecues.
• open fires except the beach between Burlington Drive eastwards to the border with Thanet.
• continuing to drink alcohol when asked to stop by a police officer or Enforcement officer.
• acting dangerously or being careless while sailing a pleasure boat, windsurfer, kite board, jet ski or other vessel.
• riding or launching jet skis other than in compliance with relevant byelaws and the council’s registration scheme.
• recreational camping (sunshades, windbreaks, fishing shelters and baby shades excepted).
• the throwing of stones or pebbles or anything else in a way that is likely to cause others alarm, harassment or distress.
• the removal, damage or vandalism of the land, fixtures, fittings and flora and fauna.

What are Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO)

PSPOs are legal measures introduced by Canterbury City Council to address and prevent antisocial behaviour in public areas, they are commonly put in place in public areas such as parks, beaches and town centres.

These orders make it a criminal offence to engage in certain activities such as the ones listed above and are put in place with the intention of improving the overall quality of life for residents and visitors in public spaces by deterring antisocial behaviour and ensuring a safe environment.