Dispersal zone introduced in Formby after anti-social behaviour

Officers in Formby have introduced a Dispersal Zone this evening (Tuesday 30 March) after reports of anti-social behaviour on Formby beach.

It came into place at 7pm today and runs for 48 hours until 7pm on Thursday 1 April and covers the area on the map.  

The Dispersal Zone is bounded by and includes the following roads: Victoria Road, Larkhill Lane, border of Formby Pinewoods, St Luke’s Church Road Life Boat Road and the entirety of the beach bordered by the coastline, Liverpool 37.  

The order comes under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour & Policing Act 2014, which gives police officers and police community support traffic officers powers to direct people they suspect are causing or likely to cause crime, nuisance or anti-social behaviour to members of the public to leave a designated area and not return for up to 48 hours. 

The Dispersal Zone is a response to reports of youths gathering on the beach and dunes and acting in an anti-social manner on Tuesday.

Under the legislation, officers have the power to seize any item, including vehicles, used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.

Should a person who has previously been directed to leave the area return, an offence would be committed, which they may ultimately be arrested for.

Acting Inspector Stephen Morris said: “We introduce Dispersal Zones to help reduce anti-social behaviour, and will be out on high visibility patrols out from this evening enforcing it. We will take action against anyone seen acting anti-socially.

“We are well aware of the significant impact this behaviour can have on the vast majority of people in area who are law-abiding members of the community looking to enjoy the beach and surrounding area.

“The dispersal zone gives us the powers we need to deal effectively with people and I would urge anyone in the area with any information about anti-social behaviour on the beach and dunes to contact us.”

Anyone who wishes to report anti-social or criminal behaviour can contact 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.