Sadly, less than a year after residents, businesses and local authorities came together to discuss escalating anti-social behaviour in Broadstairs, we have once again witnessed serious disruption during the May bank holiday period.

Businesses were forced to close early. Police dispersal powers were again required. Residents and visitors reported feeling unsafe. Once again, Broadstairs made headlines for all the wrong reasons.

Many of us attended meetings, raised concerns and were reassured that lessons had been learned following previous incidents. Yet here we are again - facing the same problems, the same disruption and the same fears about what the summer season may bring.

Residents are increasingly concerned that temporary reactive measures are replacing long-term solutions.

We also believe greater attention must now be given to the role of social media in encouraging large organised groups to travel into Broadstairs specifically to cause disruption and disorder. This is unfair on residents, businesses, visitors and the many respectful young people who simply want to enjoy the town responsibly.

This petition is not anti-young people. Broadstairs welcomes visitors of all ages. However, repeated organised anti-social behaviour cannot simply be accepted as inevitable.

PLEASE HELP US GO FURTHER THAN JUST SHARING THIS PETITION.

If you support this campaign, please also copy and paste the email template below, edit it if you wish to and send it directly to MP Polly Billington at:

polly.billington.mp@parliament.uk

Large numbers of direct emails from residents, visitors and businesses make a real difference and demonstrate the strength of public concern.

Together, we can help push for meaningful and lasting action to protect Broadstairs before the summer season escalates further. Thank you for your continued support. 

EMAIL TEMPLATE:

Dear Polly Billington,

I am writing as a resident/visitor/business supporter concerned by the repeated anti-social behaviour and disorder seen again in Broadstairs during May 2026.

Less than a year after serious incidents prompted public meetings and promises of action involving Kent Police, British Transport Police, Thanet District Council and local representatives, businesses have once again been forced to close early, families have reported feeling unsafe and police dispersal powers have again been required.

Many residents are increasingly concerned that temporary reactive measures are replacing meaningful long-term solutions.

There is also growing concern regarding the role of social media in encouraging large organised groups to travel into Broadstairs specifically to cause disruption during peak weekends and holidays. This is unfair on residents, local businesses, visitors and the many respectful young people who simply want to enjoy the town responsibly.

Broadstairs is an important family seaside destination and local businesses cannot continue facing repeated disruption every bank holiday and summer season.

I would therefore like to ask:

• What permanent measures are now being implemented to prevent repeat incidents?
• Will there be increased visible policing throughout summer 2026?
• What coordination is taking place between Kent Police, British Transport Police and Thanet District Council?
• What action is being taken regarding organised disorder linked to social media activity and rail travel into Broadstairs?
• How will residents and businesses be updated on progress and outcomes?

Residents appreciate engagement, but many now feel that meetings and temporary dispersal orders are no longer enough.

We urgently need sustained action before confidence in Broadstairs as a safe and welcoming seaside town is damaged further.

Kind regards,

[Name]

[Address]
[Postcode]