A Public Space Protection Order has come into force around Dagenham Heathway.

The order allows police to issue on-the-spot fines of £100 for anti-social behaviour including spitting, harassment, drinking alcohol in the street or begging. Suspects can also be taken to court and given fines of up to £1,000.

It’ll be in operation around the station and shopping centre, running down to the junction of Ripple Road and New Road as far as Old Dagenham Park.

The order was brought in after 97 per cent of people who took part in a consultation in April agreed to the introduction of extra powers.

Councillor Margaret Mullane, cabinet member for community safety, said: “We know this isn’t going to be an instant fix and we know there will be more work to do in solving the problems in the area, but this is another important tool in tackling anti-social behaviour and improving enforcement in our borough.”

The PSPO was brought in on Monday and will last for three years. Similar orders have been brought in around Broad Street, Choats Road, and Barking town centre.