Kent Police is one step closer to gaining new powers for combating boy racers.

Medway’s cabinet voted to recommend the introduction of a Towns-wide public spaces protection order (PSPO) that will give officers the ability to crackdown on anti-social behaviour in cars.

This means the proposal will go to the next full council meeting to be voted on by all councillors.

The cabinet noted the results of a consultation where residents overwhelmingly supported the introduction of the PSPO and had experienced nuisance behaviours such as racing, stunts, revving engines, excessive noise, speeding, burnouts, and car cruising.

Police would then be able to issue fixed-penalty notices of £100 and serious breaches could result in prosecution, leading to a maximum fine of £1,000.

Once approved by full council, the powers will come into effect in January.

Cabinet members said it was important to target nuisance drivers as they endanger pedestrians and pose a threat to other road users, as they risk accidents and are often uninsured.

Cllr Tristan Osborne, portfolio holder for community safety and enforcement, said there had been a relentless focus on getting the PSPO in place from councillors and officers because of rising anti-social behaviour.

He said that the problem of nuisance vehicles was significant within the Towns and that it was a real issue of concern for residents, and suggested further powers may be introduced if necessary.

He also referenced the comments made by Kelly Tolhurst MP (Con) about the PSPO, where she claimed Medway Council was dragging its feet in bringing in the order.

He said: “One or two MPs have made comments implying the council has been sitting on these proposals, I can say not only is that inappropriate but unprofessional.

“These orders are clearly giving powers to the police, so it is important they are engaged with by residents, and it is important that when we consult we’ve engaged in a process that is robust because they can be legally challenged.

“I welcome this report, I think it will go a long way to granting public confidence. I think these issues are of significance in Medway and residents are demanding it.”

The next full council meeting is October 19 where the PSPO will be discussed and voted upon.