Derby looks to follow Nottingham by implementing a balaclava ban

An image of Derby city centre. Picture by LDRS

Derby City Council has said it is looking closely “with interest” at launching a city-wide balaclava ban.

But the Labour-run authority has been urged to start a ban as soon as possible and follow Nottingham’s lead – with the use of face coverings increasing in Derby.

Nottingham leaders implemented new powers last month giving police and community protection officers the ability to demand face coverings are removed and issue fines.

The order can be given if there is a belief they are being worn to engage in anti-social behaviour and intimidation.

If the coverings are not removed, the wearers questioned could be fined £70.

Public safety in Derby has been a big talking point in recent times with people stating they feel “unsafe” in some parts of the city centre.

A Derby City Council survey last year showed almost 69 per cent of female participants and 68 per cent of male respondents felt “unsafe” or “very unsafe” when walking in the city centre alone at night.

More than 40 per cent of respondents also said they felt unsafe or very unsafe during the daytime.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) asked Derby City Council if such a ban – like the one in Nottingham – would be enforced in the city.

The council’s leader for public safety said it was closely monitoring Nottingham’s new policy but stressed no decision had yet been made.

Councillor Sarah Chambers, cabinet member for public safety, said: “We’re aware of the restrictions introduced in Nottingham and are following the situation with interest.

“Keeping people safe and tackling anti-social behaviour is a priority for us and we will work with police to consider whether there is a need for such a measure in Derby.”

Passengers at Derby Bus Station urged the city council to launch a balaclava ban.

Lilian Thorpe from Chaddesden told the LDRS: “The ban should be for everywhere – why is it for Nottingham and not other places?

“It’s frightening when they are coming at you on their scooters and bikes and you can’t see their faces.”

Tony Hill from Mickleover said he avoided Derby city centre at night due to fears of feeling unsafe. He welcomed such a ban.

Mr Hill said: “I think it would be a good idea especially when they ride their scooters and you can’t see who they are. There may be cameras but if their face is covered it is a waste of time.”

Stuart Bodde, who lives near the city centre, added: “I think they should definitely be banned in shops.”

Councillor Steve Hassall, leader of Derby’s Conservative group, said a ban is needed in Derby and called for the council to be “more proactive”.

He said: “Derby shouldn’t simply be saying it is looking at it “with interest” – we should be getting on with it and looking at how we can introduce the same measure here.”

Derbyshire police said it was also looking at Nottingham’s ban closely and said “active discussions” could take place soon.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Rebecca Webster said: “We are of course watching the outcome of the Nottingham ban and the successes that may see.

“There will be active conversations with partner agencies in relation to the impact of the restrictions in Nottingham and any consideration of a ban being brought to Derby.”

Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner Nicolle Ndiweni-Roberts has also been approached for comment.