Cyclists have been banned from Gravesend’s main shopping area – or face a fine.

The rule covers New Road, which is largely pedestrianised, seven days a week from 10am to 6pm and is part of a new public space protection order, which came into force last Friday following a public consultation.

More than 650 people responded to the consultation and the order will also include alcohol restriction zones in Darnley Road and roads surrounding and including King Street.

Anyone caught drinking in these areas will be asked to surrender their alcohol by an authorised officer. If they are caught again within a reasonable time they will be hit with a fine.

People will not be allowed to lie on the street unless they are homeless, including in car parks and shop doorways, and while enforcement officers already issue fines to litter louts, the order makes specific reference to those caught discarding items relating to legal highs.

The order will last three years.

“I’m expecting to see a real difference to the quality of life of our residents, visitors and businesses that come to the town.” Cllr Samir Jassal.

Cllr Samir Jassal, cabinet member for community safety, said: “This protection order was proposed because of concerns about anti-social behaviour and other issues within the town centre.

“This consultation provided us with a clearer sense of what the public consider key concerns.

“The introduction of this public space protection order is a really positive outcome for the people of Gravesham.

“I’m expecting to see a real difference to the quality of life of our residents, visitors and businesses that come to the town.”

People caught flouting the order may be issued with a £75 fixed penalty notice, but no fines will be issued until August to give people time to understand and get used to the restrictions.

There were further measures proposed that were not supported by the consultation. These included deterring the feeding of pigeons, discouraging unauthorised street collections and putting a stop to inconsiderate busking.

Also set to be introduced is a code of conduct for street entertainers, musicians and businesses, which will operate separately from the protection order.