Nottingham City Council is set to become the first UK city centre to introduce a ban on balaclavas amid increasing crime involving masked youths riding e-bikes across the city streets. Council leader Neghat Khan has announced intentions to prosecute and fine individuals wearing balaclavas as part of efforts to reduce anti-social behaviour and enhance public safety in Nottingham.
The proposed ban comes in response to growing concerns about e-bike riders wearing balaclavas in all weather conditions. Khan highlighted the safety risks, stating, “It’s 32 degrees, and you’re wearing a balaclava. That’s not acceptable.” The council is currently consulting on a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) designed to address various nuisance behaviours, including busking and begging. A separate consultation on banning balaclavas may follow if there is sufficient public support.
Support for the proposal is increasing among local campaigners and business owners. Amy Hodson-Ridgeway, whose son was injured in an e-bike hit-and-run, called for similar policies to be adopted nationally. She said, “These face coverings provide anonymity to countless individuals committing crimes and help them evade accountability.” Shopkeepers have also reported that masked youths target shops with confidence, knowing CCTV cameras cannot capture their faces clearly.
Nottingham currently ranks as the seventh most dangerous place outside London, with 122.2 crimes per 1,000 residents. Khan acknowledged that the city’s crime reputation is damaging and pledged to change it. She said, “I don’t care who it is, any time, day or night, you should feel safe. This is your city and we’re not going to let criminals take it over.” Khan aims for Nottingham to become the safest city in the country.
The proposed balaclava ban follows several high-profile incidents involving masked youths on e-bikes, including reports of intimidation and machete brandishing at Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland event last November. These events have intensified calls for stronger measures against offenders wearing face coverings.
The council’s consultation on the Public Spaces Protection Order is open until 23 June, with the balaclava ban potentially being discussed separately. This initiative aligns with Nottingham’s 2050 Vision, which sets out long-term plans to improve safety and quality of life in the city.
Originally published by UKNIP.
