Dispersal Order introduced in Southport this weekend to help combat anti-social behaviour

A Section 34 Dispersal Order has been introduced in Southport as part of a continued response to help combat anti-social behaviour in the area.

The order runs from 6pm today (Friday 2 August) until 6pm on Sunday 4 August and includes the area shown on the map, as follows:

Marine Drive, Weld Road, Liverpool Road, Cemetery Road, Kew Road, Benthams Way, Town Lane, Meols Cop Road, Roe Lane, Park Road, Park Road West Promenade and Fairways. 

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, for which they may ultimately be arrested.

Sefton Community Policing Inspector Graham Fisher said: “We have introduced this order in response to the disorder which took place earlier this week, which has had a huge impact on residents and businesses in Southport.

“We have increased patrols in the area to deal with any issues, and this dispersal zone gives officers extra powers to approach people they suspect may be there to commit anti-social behaviour or other crimes.

“This order is to ensure residents and businesses are not subjected to any such behaviour, and 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, 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.