A fresh bid is being attempted to stop running, jumping, or climbing across rooftops in St Neots without permission. Huntingdonshire District Council and Cambridgeshire Constabulary have secured a Civil Injunction Order to address anti-social behaviour concerns in the town centre.
The order, granted by Cambridge County Court, (on 6 November), applies to ‘persons unknown’ and will remain in effect for two years, unless amended or revoked.
Within the designated are, ‘persons unknown’ are prohibited from:
Engaging in acts of harassment or verbal abuse towards others while involved in other prohibited activities.
Accessing property within the covered area with the intent to climb stairs or rooftops without the owner’s or occupier’s consent.
Running, jumping, or climbing across rooftops in the covered area without permission.
Violating the Civil Injunction Order constitutes Contempt of Court, carrying serious consequences including fines or a prison sentence.
Sergeant Rob Streater, from the St Neots Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Following an increase in reports of young people engaging in dangerous and anti-social behaviour by climbing onto rooftops and running across them, we have obtained this civil injunction to help us address any repeat incidents more effectively.
“The injunction will give us the power to take action against those responsible. We are also working closely with business owners to implement preventative measures including applying anti-climb paint, to deter further incidents.
“Our priority is to keep the community safe and ensure that our town remains a secure and welcoming place for everyone.”
Executive councillor for residents services and corporate performance, Cllr Stephen Ferguson said: “St Neots is a vibrant town, and we are committed to ensuring it remains a safe, welcoming place for everyone who lives, works, or visits here.
“This Civil Injunction is an important tool to deter disruptive and unsafe behaviours, helping to create an environment where families, businesses and the wider community can thrive.”
“The order represents a commitment to maintaining safety and public order in St Neots, making it a welcoming place for residents, visitors and businesses,” said a police spokesperson.
“If you see a live breach of this order, report it by calling 999. Non-live breaches can be reported via 101.”
For more information, including the map detailing the covered area, visit Civil Injunction Order Granted to Cover St Neots Town Centre – Huntingdonshire.gov.uk
Community Safety Partnership Delivery Officer at Huntingdonshire District Council Georgia Patterson and PCSO Daniel Grant.
