Huntingdonshire District Council and Cambridgeshire Constabulary have successfully secured a Civil Injunction Order to enhance safety and address concerns in St Neots town centre.
The Order, granted by Cambridge County Court on 6 November 2024, applies to 'Persons Unknown' and will remain in effect until 6 November 2026, unless amended or revoked.
The Injunction aims to deter anti-social behaviour and enhance public safety in the town centre. The Order prohibits the following activities within the designated area:
- 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 such as fines or prison sentences.
Executive Councillor for Resident 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."
Sergeant Rob Streater, from 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.
"This reckless behaviour not only puts the individuals involved at serious risk of injury but also causes significant damage to local businesses.
"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."
The Order represents a commitment to maintaining safety and public order in St Neots, making it a welcoming place for residents, visitors and businesses. If you see a live breach of this order, please report it by calling 999. Non-live breaches can be reported via 101 or through the Huntingdonshire District Council website.
For more information, including the map detailing the covered area, visit Civil Injunction Order Granted to cover St Neots Town Centre.