Almost 50 fines issued in Medway after car meets cause public disturbance
Kent Police and Medway Council tackle antisocial behaviour in Hoo and Rainham
Kent Police intervened to disperse two unauthorised car meets in Medway, issuing almost 50 fines in one night to drivers causing nuisance and disruptions to the community.
On Saturday 20th June 2026, reports of cars revving and racing on Ratcliffe Highway, Hoo, alerted officers at midnight.
Police estimated a presence of 30 to 40 vehicles, either involved in racing or spectating.
Officers used their patrol cars to disperse the group and noted the number plates of those present.
About 20 minutes later, another meet occurred on Hoath Way in Rainham, resulting in similar police dispersal efforts.
Enforcement and fines
The gatherings breached the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in place across Medway, leading to the issue of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for antisocial behaviour and noise infractions.
Two FPNs were handed out on the night, with an additional 47 distributed retroactively to car owners.
Those receiving FPNs face fines of up to £100, reduced to £70 if paid within 21 days.
This enforcement action is part of a collaboration with Medway Council, where Kent Police’s Special Constabulary monitors vehicle hotspots with the council’s Public Protection Community Safety Team.
Inspector Allen Searle emphasised the importance of addressing antisocial behaviour:
“We sympathise with the public and don’t underestimate the impact antisocial and nuisance behaviour can have on a community," Searle said.
"Saturday’s activity proves the importance of orders like PSPOs, as they allow us to take stronger action against those disturbing the peace and safety of our communities.”
Searle thanked residents for reporting the events and encouraged continued vigilance in reporting similar disturbances.
Community response and cooperation
Cllr Alex Paterson, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Highways and Enforcement, highlighted the collaboration between police and council:
“We will not tolerate antisocial behaviour in Medway, and I would like to personally thank the officers from both Kent Police and Medway Council for showing that in practice last weekend," Paterson said.
"I think this sends a strong message to other people, and it is a fantastic example of partnership working."
Paterson echoed the call for residents to report disturbances to aid in shutting down potentially dangerous activities:
“This disruptive and potentially dangerous action was able to be closed down thanks to residents making reports – and we would urge people to continue to do so in the future.”
The successful enforcement action represents an ongoing commitment to ensuring peace and safety in Medway communities.