Gwynedd residents will benefit from tougher new measures to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) when the Crime and Policing Act 2026 strengthens powers available to police, local authorities and partner agencies to make neighbourhoods safer.

The new legislation introduces a range of measures designed to crack down on persistent ASB, improve support for victims and provide authorities with stronger enforcement powers to deal with those who blight local communities.

The act places a new duty on Police and Crime Commissioners – including North Wales PCC Andy Dunbobbin – to promote awareness of the ASB Case Review process, formerly known as the Community Trigger. PCCs will also provide a route through their offices for victims to query decisions, helping to improve accountability and consistency in the way cases are handled.

An ASB Case Review empowers repeat victims of ASB to ask for a review of the actions partner agencies have taken to resolve their concerns. To be eligible, you need to have experienced three incidents as an individual in the last six months, or be part of five individuals in the local community who have separately reported similar incidents and all feel dissatisfied with the action taken and agree they want to raise the case review.

Each of the incidents need to have been reported within one month of them taking place and you must apply for case review within six months of the latest incident. The victim can be a business, individual or a community group.

PCC Andy Dunbobbin said: "I know from speaking to residents across North Wales that ASB can have a devastating impact on people's quality of life. Whether it is nuisance vehicles, persistent intimidation, vandalism or other forms of unacceptable behaviour, residents deserve to feel safe in their own communities.

"These new powers will provide police, councils and partners with stronger tools to tackle the most persistent offenders and ensure victims receive the support they need.

“I particularly welcome the enhanced role for Police and Crime Commissioners in promoting awareness of the ASB Case Review process, helping to ensure that victims across North Wales know where to turn when they feel their concerns are not being heard.

"We remain committed to working closely with North Wales Police, local authorities and communities to tackle ASB and make North Wales a safer place for everyone."

The legislation also introduces a new Respect Order to tackle the most serious and persistent adult ASB offenders. The new order will give police and local agencies stronger powers to address repeat offending and help restore confidence in affected communities.

The act also makes it easier for police to seize vehicles being used in an anti-social manner.

In addition, local agencies will be required to share ASB data with the Government. This will provide a clearer picture of the scale and nature of ASB across England and Wales and help identify the most effective interventions.

The new measures form part of the UK Government's wider commitment to restoring respect for communities, supporting victims and tackling behaviour that causes harm, distress and fear in neighbourhoods across England and Wales.