New Respect Orders to tackle antisocial behaviour and protect Weston businesses
New powers have come into force to tackle persistent antisocial behaviour, following Dan Aldridge, MP for Weston-super-Mare, work with local businesses and police leaders to push for stronger action.
Dan Aldridge has welcomed the introduction of new Respect Orders, which came into effect on 26 October 2026, giving courts stronger powers to tackle persistent antisocial behaviour and help make Weston’s streets and neighbourhoods safer.
The new orders follow Mr Aldridge’s continued efforts to support local businesses affected by antisocial behaviour and push for stronger action to address the issues facing Weston’s high street and public spaces.
Last December, Dan met with Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody and several local businesses, where antisocial behaviour was a key concern.
The meeting highlighted the impact persistent offending can have on traders, their staff and customers, as well as the wider community.
Since then, Dan has continued to push for stronger Government action to give local authorities, police and other partners the tools they need to tackle repeat offenders and make Weston a safer place to live, work and visit.
Respect Orders will allow courts to ban adult offenders from specific activities linked to their antisocial behaviour, such as public drinking in a particular area.
They can also include positive requirements to address the underlying causes of offending, including drug or alcohol treatment.
Breaching a Respect Order will be a criminal offence, with offenders facing arrest, fines, community sentences and, in the most serious cases, prison sentences of up to two years.
The new powers are intended to fill gaps in existing legislation, giving local agencies stronger enforcement options against persistent adult offenders and providing greater protection for affected residents and businesses.
Respect Orders form part of the Government’s Crime and Policing Act, which introduces a wider package of measures aimed at tackling crime and improving public safety.
Dan Aldridge said:
“Antisocial behaviour can have a real impact on local businesses, their staff and customers. Nobody should have to put up with persistent disruption on their high street, and local businesses deserve to feel supported when they raise concerns.
“I’m pleased that Respect Orders are now in force. They give the authorities stronger powers to deal with repeat offenders, while also providing
opportunities to address the underlying causes of their behaviour.
“I know there is more to do, but this is an important step towards the change that local businesses and residents have been calling for. I will continue working with local businesses, the police and other partners to make sure their concerns are heard and that Weston is a safer place to live, work and visit.”
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