Section 34 Dispersal Order introduced to tackle ASB in Kirkby Town Centre

This weekend we will be introducing a Section 34 Dispersal Order in Kirkby Town Centre as part of a continued response to reports of anti-social behaviour in the area.

The order will be in place for 48 hours from 4pm today (Friday 23 February) until 3.59pm on Sunday 25 February. It covers Cherryfield Drive, County Road, Webster Drive, Hall Lane and the shops and streets located in Kirkby town centre (see map).

The order comes under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour & Policing Act 2014, which gives police officers and police community support traffic officers powers to direct people who are engaging in antisocial behaviour or are likely to become involved in such incidents. These powers will not be used for anyone visiting the area and going about their daily business.

Under the legislation, officers have the power to seize any item 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.

Local Policing Inspector Andrew Robinson said: “This Dispersal Order has been introduced this weekend in response to reports involving anti-social behaviour and criminality in the area.

“This behaviour is having a negative impact on businesses, residents and visitors to Kirkby town centre. Our patrols have been increased in the area to deal with any issues, and this order is an additional measure we can use to prevent any criminality from taking place.

“Officers will carry extra powers to approach people they suspect may be there to commit anti-social behaviour or other crimes, and I want to provide reassurance to those people in the community who are affected by such issues that we take such incidents very seriously.

“I would also urge parents and guardians to know where young people in your care are, to further assist us in dealing with those who cause trouble.

“If you witness any anti-social behaviour or have any information about such incidents, please contact or speak to our officers and we will take action.”

Always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can pass any information on anti-social behaviour via our social media desk @MerPolCC on Twitter or 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. You can also follow @MerPolKnowsley on Twitter and Knowsley Police Facebook for updates and advice.