On Wednesday, May 29, and Friday, May 31, a joint operation involving police, cadets, and council personnel was conducted on Dartford High Street. The purpose was to inform the public about the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) and address the issue of illegal e-scooter usage in the area.
The PSPO has been active in the town center since 2017, initially aimed at curbing anti-social behavior. In February of this year, amendments were made to include a specific ban on riding e-scooters in the main pedestrian zones of the town center. Enforcement of this order falls under the jurisdiction of both council staff and Kent Police officers.
During the operation, law enforcement officials confiscated 10 e-scooters that were being ridden unlawfully. Kent Police issued six traffic offense reports to some riders, while council staff issued five fixed penalty notices for violating the PSPO.
Inspector Lee Cheesman of Dartford Community Safety Unit emphasized the illegality of using e-scooters in public spaces, citing potential risks to both the public and riders themselves. Kent Police, in collaboration with partner agencies, reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining Dartford as a safe and welcoming town, pledging to take a firm stance against any form of anti-social behavior.
