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Nuisance drivers moved on in 'boy racer' PSPO crackdown in Crossways Boulevard, Greenhithe

A group of noisy "boy racers" tearing up and down a busy dual carriageway at dangerous speeds have been given their marching orders under new police powers.

The convoy of at least 10 vehicles was seen whizzing up and down Crossways Boulevard, Greenhithe over the weekend.

Tyre marks have been left in the road in Crossways Boulevard previously. File photo
Tyre marks have been left in the road in Crossways Boulevard previously. File photo

In videos shared online, the audible screeching of tyres can be heard as cars race past a roundabout before motorists parked up outside the Burger King in Charles Street.

Officers attended the area on Saturday night and requested the nuisance drivers to leave.

A dispersal order was also put in place on Sunday and police say they will be closely monitoring the area to ensure anyone seen causing anti-social behaviour is appropriately responded to.

Neighbours have long complained of modified cars whizzing up and down Crossways Boulevard between the Dartford Crossing and roads near Bluewater shopping centre at speeds of up to 80mph. The speed limit is 40mph.

One former resident, who has since moved away from the area due to the noise, even likened it to "living on the set of a knock-off Fast and Furious".

Police have responded to numerous incidents of anti-social behaviour along Crossways Boulevard over the last few years
Police have responded to numerous incidents of anti-social behaviour along Crossways Boulevard over the last few years

There have also been reports of cars using the ScrewFix car park at Quadrant Court, or Asda to perform “driving stunts” such as wheel spinning and “doughnutting”.

Dartford council recently authorised a new public space protection order (PSPO) to cover the area and tackle anti-social meets.

The order gives police new powers, including the ability to dish out on-the-spot fines of up to £100 – reduced to £60 if paid within 10 days.

Kent County Councillor for Swanscombe and Greenhithe Cllr Peter Harman, who had campaigned for the introduction of PSPO, says it is having a positive impact despite last weekend's disturbance.

"It is similar to what they have over in Essex," he said. "Since it's been introduced it has gone a lot quieter.

"The thing to remember is there are always two types. There are the ones originally with meets of 100 cars and up.

Cllr Peter Harman, who campaigned for the PSPO, says it is having a positive impact. Picture: Barry Goodwin.
Cllr Peter Harman, who campaigned for the PSPO, says it is having a positive impact. Picture: Barry Goodwin.

"But when we have got three to four cars racing up and down the carriageway, that is different and more difficult."

Concerns surrounding anti-social behaviour can be reported here. You can also keep up to date with what is happening in your community by joining My Community Voice here.

Cllr Harman is encouraging residents to call 999 if there is an incident which is a "danger to members of the public".

"Police have to respond to the most serious incidents," he said. "But unless you report it they have got no chance of dealing with it.

"If you report it online and it does not get dealt with, they are gone."

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