Borough patrol officers could be given greater powers which will allow them to dish out on-the-spot fines to anyone making a nuisance of themselves in Southend town centre.
The six officers can already dish out fixed penalty notices to litterbugs but that could be extended to cycling on the pavement, dog fouling and drinking alcohol in the street.
The borough council is expected to approach the Chief Constable soon to accredit the patrol officers with the powers under the Police Reform Act 2003.
Chief Superintendent Mick Thwaites said: "They will have certain powers which will allow them to give fixed penalty notices for quality of life issues - minor nuisance offences like cycling on the pavement, dog fouling and consuming alcohol in certain places. They will be able to demand a name and address which they cannot do now.
"It will give us more people on the ground and to give the public what they want - to deal with community problems."
Published Tuesday, May 20, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article