Catapult ban now in force in Downton and surrounding villages
Move aims to curb anti-social behaviour
Last updated 6th Sep 2022
A ban on catapults is now in place in Downton and the surrounding villages in a bid to tackle anti-social behaviour in the area.
Wiltshire Council has confirmed a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) came into force on August 31st following ongoing issues with homes and vehicles being targeted.
Anyone caught 'without reasonable excuse' with a catapult, slingshot or something similar which could be used as a projectile to cause harm or damage faces an on-the-spot fine of up to £100.
Anyone over the age of 10 years can be issued with one by an 'authorised person' from Wiltshire Police or the local authority.
The area covered by the PSPO includes not only Downton but Redlynch, Morgan's Vale, Woodfalls and Lover.
'Deterrent'
Local residents have been blighted with issues involving catapults over the past few years with both homes and vehicles targeted including a Salisbury Reds bus with school children on.
Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said:
“We want to thank everyone who responded to the consultation and we are glad that the order has now been granted.
“In this instance the response was overwhelmingly in favour of it being brought in, and now that the order is in place, we hope that it will act as a useful deterrent to help to ease the anti-social behaviour problem in Downton and Redlynch.
“As stated in our Business Plan, we want Wiltshire to be a place where people are safe, and the action we have taken here will support that.”