Dispersal order to keep public safe in Huyton during Halloween and Bonfire period

A dispersal zone has been introduced in Huyton town centre today, Wednesday 30 October, to help everyone stay safe during the Halloween and Bonfire period.

The order began at 3pm today and runs until 3pm Friday 1 November when it will be further reviewed. Officers will be in the area to provide a visible presence and deal with any incidents.

The Dispersal Zone covers the areas within the boundaries of Lathom Road, Asda Store and car park, Huyton Lane, Archway Road, Ellison Grove, Poplar Bank, Derby Road and Huyton Hey Road.

These dispersal zones are under Section 34/35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour & Policing Act 2014, which gives police officers the powers to direct people engaging in anti-social behaviour or are likely to become involved in such incidents and not return for up to 48 hours. Officers also have the power to seize items used for anti-social behaviour.

Should a person who has previously been directed to leave but returns to the area, then an offence would be committed, and they may be arrested.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector David Hassett said: “As in previous years, we have proactively put this dispersal zone in place to help prevent any anti-social behaviour that might occur around Halloween and in the run up to Bonfire Night.

“What might seem like fun and games sometimes isn’t. Any damage committed to property or street furniture isn’t harmless fun, it is criminal damage.

“For this reason the dispersal order is to prevent youths gathering and causing unnecessary distress and intimidation to people who want to go about their business without fear or harm.  

“We have increased patrols in the area, and this latest action of a dispersal zone is to deal with any issues and prevent offences from taking place. I would ask people to continue reporting any concerns and we will take action. 

“I would urge parents and guardians to know where young people in your care are, what they are up to and friends they are with to further assist us in dealing with those who cause trouble. It is not only to stop them causing unnecessary distress to residents in the area, but also for their own safety and welfare.”

Anyone who wishes to report anti-social or criminal behaviour can contact @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency.