Hart District Council has taken a pioneering step in tackling anti‑social behaviour by authorising VIVID housing association to issue Community Protection Notices (CPNs).
CPNs are designed to stop ongoing or persistent behaviour that has a negative impact on the wider community. They can be issued to individuals over 16, businesses or organisations and require the behaviour to stop and take reasonable steps to ensure it is not repeated in the future.
Hart is the first authority in Hampshire to extend these powers to a housing association and marks an important milestone in strengthening community safety and improving residents’ quality of life.
Examples of when a CPN might be issued include intimidatory behaviour, persistent noise disturbance, dog fouling and alcohol or drug‑related nuisance.
Before a CPN is issued, perpetrators receive a written warning to give them an opportunity to change their behaviour before formal sanctions are considered. If the behaviour persists, a CPN is served, requiring the individual or organisation to cease the behaviour, take remedial action, or both. Failure to comply is a criminal offence and may result in a fine or a fixed penalty notice.
Councillor Tina Collins, portfolio holder for Community Safety, said: “By giving VIVID the power to issue Community Protection Notices, we can respond more quickly and effectively to anti‑social behaviour. This partnership strengthens our ability to protect residents and maintain safe, welcoming neighbourhoods across Hart.
"This is a pioneering initiative and model for other local authorities."
Beth Holmyard, Head of Neighbourhoods at VIVID, said: “This is a really positive step for our customers and the wider community. Being able to issue Community Protection Notices helps us work with people earlier, resolve issues more quickly and make sure our customers feel safe and supported where they live. It also shows how we are working successfully with key partners to keep our communities safe”.