A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is now in force across the entire Braintree district to tackle nuisance vehicles.
A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is now in force across the entire Braintree district to tackle nuisance vehicles.
Using powers under S59 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, the protection order is now in place as of 29 May 2026.
The move follows public concerns and complaints around antisocial driving within the district such as car racing, car meets, noise and stunts. The majority of antisocial behaviour being reported was located around the Great Notley bypass and the A131, Bluebridge Industrial Estate in Halstead, Witham Industrial Estates, Springwood Industrial Estate and Horizon 120.
The Council held a consultation in August last year, where 84% of respondents said they were supportive of this PSPO and had witnessed behaviour such as motor vehicles being raced against one another, excessive speed, revving engines (as to cause a public nuisance) and stunts such as dough-nutting, drifting, skidding, handbrake turns and wheel spinning.
The Order applies to all public highways and public places within the entire Braintree District.
The following activities are prohibited within the restricted area where they cause or are likely to cause harassment, alarm, distress, or nuisance:
- Participating in, promoting, or encouraging vehicle-related nuisance behaviour
- Car cruising and car meets, including congregating around vehicles
- Creating excessive noise, including loud music or engine noise
- Producing excessive exhaust fumes
- Driving in convoys causing disruption or nuisance
- Performing vehicle stunts, including, drifting, wheel spins or doughnuts, handbrake turns, wheelies
- Obstructing highways or public spaces with vehicles
Under the requirements of the order, individuals must:
- Disperse when directed by a Police Officer, or authorised Council Officer, and not return within a specified period
- Switch off engines and amplified music when stationary
- Dispose of waste responsibly and not leave litter or vehicle-related debris
- Comply with all reasonable instructions from authorised officers
Penalties include a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100; or Prosecution leading to a fine of up to £1,000 (Level 3).
Cllr Charley Dervish, Cabinet Member for Better Communities, said: “Illegal street racing and car meets can cause significant disruption to local communities, including noise pollution, safety risks and damage to property. PSPOs help protect residents and businesses by reducing these negative impacts and promoting a safer, more peaceful environment.”
The Order will be enforced by Police Officers and authorised Officers of Braintree District Council.