Stafford Borough Council is consulting the public on proposals to restrict face coverings in the town centre as part of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). Under the plans, police could ask someone to remove a mask if they suspected it was being used to hide their identity while causing trouble. Refusing could result in a £100 fine, though exemptions would apply on religious, cultural and medical grounds.
Traders have welcomed the move. Tim Sandy, owner of French and Byrne cafe bar, said antisocial behaviour had become a real concern, particularly during school holidays.
"There's been climbing on roofs, throwing things, and large groups can be intimidating," he said. "I've spoken to families who've seen that atmosphere and moved away from areas because of it."
Sandy added that most traders simply wanted a safe environment for people to enjoy the town.
Business leader Martin Lennon, chairman of the Elm Group and chief executive of Stafford Rugby Club, said the situation was not yet a major problem but that early action was important. He also pointed to the role clubs and youth provision could play in keeping young people positively engaged.
Independent borough councillor Jill Hood, who backed the PSPO, said intimidation had been a key concern raised by both residents and traders. "If you see someone coming towards you with their face completely covered, the fear of crime is intimidating in itself," she said.
Staffordshire Police said officers were already carrying out daily patrols in the town centre, targeting antisocial behaviour, nuisance bikes and e-scooters, and breaches of existing PSPO rules. A dispersal order was also used over a recent weekend to move on those believed to be causing problems.
Chief Inspector Saqib Butt said: "We will continue to do all we can to ensure Stafford town centre remains a safe place to visit, work and live."
Source: bbc.co.uk
