Story perspectives

Darlington MP Proposes £100 Fines for Balaclava Wearers

12/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

Labour MP Lola McEvoy has called for powers to fine balaclava-wearing individuals in Darlington, proposing £100 fines to deter intimidation.
Plan follows reports of anti-social behaviour linked to balaclava-wearing youths and seeks to implement a public space protection order (PSPO).
Darlington Borough Council and local police back the PSPO.
Conservative MP Matt Vickers supports tougher measures, while police say balaclava wearers are often not criminals but still cause unease.

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Story summary

Labour MP Lola McEvoy has called for powers to fine balaclava-wearing individuals in Darlington, proposing £100 fines to deter intimidation.
Plan follows reports of anti-social behaviour linked to balaclava-wearing youths and seeks to implement a public space protection order (PSPO).
Darlington Borough Council and local police back the PSPO.
Conservative MP Matt Vickers supports tougher measures, while police say balaclava wearers are often not criminals but still cause unease.