Dispersal zone in Seaforth this evening

A dispersal zone will be introduced in Seaforth this evening following ongoing reports of anti-social behaviour and youths causing a nuisance.

The dispersal zones begins from 4pm today (Wednesday 10 June) until 2am on Friday 12 June where it will be further reviewed. Officers will be in the areas to provide a visible presence and deal with any incidents.

The dispersal zone will cover all areas within the geographical boundary of Crosby Road South, Cambridge Road, Merseyrail Line bordering Rimrose Valley Park and Hapsford Park to Akenside Street and Knowsley Road.

The dispersal zones have been introduced under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour & Policing Act 2014, which gives police officers the powers to direct people to leave the area if they are 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 return to the area, then an offence would be committed and they may be arrested. 

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Kenneth Sumner said: “Sadly as the daylight hours are getting longer, we have seen an increase in reported incidents of anti-social behaviour in Seaforth which is wholly unacceptable.

“Reports include youths throwing items at passing vehicles which is dangerous and creates a risk of a collision to drivers and cyclists.

“Recently in St Helens an egg was thrown at a car and the motorist had the window open, suffering a serious eye injury. She is still receiving treatment for this.

“This shameful conduct is causing unnecessary distress and intimidation to people who shouldn’t have to be confronted with such mindless behaviour, and please be rest-assured we are taking this very seriously.

“We continue to proactively put a number of measures in place, including these dispersal zones, and our officers are actively patrolling these areas to provide reassurance.”

Inspector Sumner added: “Most young people behave responsibly, but sadly it is a minority of youths are being disruptive. We don’t want to arrest or criminalise a young person, but formal action needs to be taken.

“No parent wants a knock on their door from a police officer informing them that their child has been arrested or been involved in a serious accident.

“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.”

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.

Anyone with information on antisocial behaviour in their area is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X @MerPolCC or on Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’.

You can also report information via our website: Report a crime | Merseyside Police or call 101. 

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: Giving information | Crimestoppers . In an emergency always call 999.