The influx of the mega-rich who commonly bring their supercars along with them in the summer to fashionable locations in Kensington and Chelsea, has been angering the local residents for several years. So much so, that a crackdown on their anti-social behaviour is now being proposed through the introduction of new laws by the council. The wealthy owners will be faced with the option of curbing their “boy racer” instincts or risking potential prosecution.
Sports cars causing nuisance
The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has attracted many wealthy newcomers from the Middle East to purchase homes which they utilise mainly during the summer months.
Unfortunately for the genuine locals, their arrival also brings with it the appearance of customised sports cars such as Lamborghinis, Ferraris and Bugattis. Some residents refer to the period as “the season”, a time when the area around Knightsbridge witnesses fast cars racing around the streets and engines being revved annoyingly.
New law proposed
Councillor Tim Ahern spoke for the locals when he stated that they “want to take steps to discourage these drivers from their antisocial behaviour.” The council are proposing a new law that would make the revving of engines or quick acceleration subject to criminal proceedings. In addition, the legislation would seek to stop drivers leaving their engines running while their cars were stationary.
Also frowned upon would be loud music and the honking of horns, as the council seeks to impose a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) around the area.
The power of the PSPO
It is believed that Kensington and Chelsea would become the first to utilise the power of the PSPO, which came into being under the 2014 Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act.
The council have issued a consultation document, with the consultation period set to end in September. Should the PSPO be enacted after that time, those in breach of it would be subject to a fine or maybe even prosecution. The Police could go further and seize the cars in the case of serial offenders.
Enough is enough
It seems likely that the locals have become tired of the almost constant noise that has been created, especially as it often becomes even worse in the evening and at night.
Another councillor who is also a resident himself, Quentin Marshall spoke to The Sunday Telegraph on the matter. He told them that although the problems used to occur just in the summer months “it is becoming pretty much all year round.”
