Inside UK town which banned hoodies to crackdown on ‘bad behaviour’ – but it massively backfired
RESIDENTS of a UK town where hoodies have slammed the “stupid” rule brought in to crackdown on “bad behaviour”
Romford Business Improvement District have forbidden anyone from pulling a hood over their head whilst in the Essex town.
The rule was brought in by officials from the Romford Business Improvement District, which manages the Essex town’s shopping square, back in April.
The scheme, which also saw ski masks and motorcycle helmets banned, was backed by local councillers and the Metropolitan Police.
But now it has backfired – with locals up in arms over the draconian rules.
Local Mohamed Amraoui told The Guardian: “It’s the most stupid thing I’ve ever heard in my life.
“It’s a debatable topic because stereotypically someone wearing a ski mask wants to make trouble.
“But there’s a lot of diversity around here and people wear it for fashion.”
And teenager Saleem Ahmed added that he felt the scheme targeted young people, joking: “What if it’s raining?”
Surgical masks and religious garments are permitted.
Jon Yates, executive director of the Youth Endowment Fund, added that there was no evidence the plan would work, branding the enforcement of clothing rules “draconian”.
He added: “Hoodies tend to be worn by young people, so it’s labelling a whole group as negative.
“And there’s a danger that by doing something for which there’s no clear evidence, it’s a distraction from what does actually work.”
The initiative had been designed to reduce anti-social behaviour – which has surged by 30% in the town since 2012.
And despite many hating the ban – shop owners are in support of the rules.
Tech shop manage Jon Lyme said his shop had been“terrorised” hoodie-wearing gangs, adding: “They rush in and take what they can get their hands on, and they all have face coverings”.
Jon Yates, executive director of the Youth Endowment Fund, added that there was no evidence the plan would work, branding the enforcement of clothing rules “draconian”.
He added: “Hoodies tend to be worn by young people, so it’s labelling a whole group as negative.
“And there’s a danger that by doing something for which there’s no clear evidence, it’s a distraction from what does actually work.”
Julie Frost, Romford BID Director said, “I really hope that this initiative makes visitors feel safer – knowing throughout the town there are measures in place to deter anti-social behaviour and prevent crime.
“Working together we are determined to restore people’s confidence and ensure the town is a welcoming and enjoyable place to live, work and visit.”
The Sun has contacted Romford Business Improvement District for comment.