Police have issued five £100 fines in Stone after drivers were caught breaching restrictions in the pedestrianised area of the town centre.
Local officers, working with Stafford Borough Council, carried out an enforcement operation on Thursday 16 October as part of ongoing efforts to tackle repeated breaches of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO).
The order, which covers key parts of Stone and Stafford, places restrictions on certain activities to help keep public areas safe and accessible for everyone. It includes rules on vehicle access, cycling, alcohol consumption and public gatherings.
Fines issued for driving through pedestrian zone
Five Fixed Penalty Notices were handed to motorists who ignored the restrictions and drove vehicles through the pedestrianised zone.
Police said the enforcement followed reports of ongoing issues despite clear signage in place around the town centre.
A spokesperson for Stafford Borough Council said the PSPO was introduced to “support a safer, more pleasant environment for all users of public spaces.”
What the order means
Under the PSPO, anyone in the designated area is prohibited from having open alcohol containers and must surrender them when asked by authorised officers.
The order also bans:
- Motor vehicles in pedestrian areas
- Pedal cycles, scooters, skateboards and roller skates
- Groups of five or more gathering or loitering
- Charity or utility canvassing or collecting without permission
Officers remind visitors of town centre rules
Officers have reminded residents and visitors to look out for the PSPO signs displayed around Stone and Stafford town centres.
“These rules are in place to keep our public spaces safe and enjoyable for all,” said one of the local officers involved in the operation. “We’d ask everyone to respect the restrictions so that the town centre can be a pleasant space for shoppers, businesses and visitors alike.”
For more information about the Public Spaces Protection Order, visit www.staffordbc.gov.uk/pspo or call 01785 619 000.
