Dispersal Zone – Southport Town Centre

Merseyside Police will be issuing a 48-hour dispersal zone this weekend in Southport Town Centre following recent reports of anti-social behaviour.

The zone will be running from 7.00pm on Friday night (18 March) until 7.00pm on Sunday night (20 March), and will give police powers to direct people involved in anti-social behaviour and criminal damage. Any breach of this order can result in arrest.

Speaking this week Southport Neighbourhood Inspector Graham Fisher said: “I will be issuing the dispersal order to tackle ongoing anti-social behaviour issues around the Town Centre. In addition, we will also be sending extra officers to patrol Kings Gardens, where we know that groups are congregating, causing nuisance and damage.

“There will be extra patrols throughout the dispersal zone all weekend, and we are working with local businesses and the Council to identify offenders and take the appropriate action.

“These zones are not about bothering people, young or old, who are going about their legitimate daily business. However, we will be targeting people who are intent on causing anti-social behaviour or criminal damage, especially if they are gathering in large groups, which can be intimidating to others. These issues will of course be closely monitored and further dispersals will be authorised if appropriate.”

“I welcome the information provided to us so far from the local community, and we will continue to respond to their concerns, to allow us to focus our resources on the right areas.”

Members of the community with any further information are encouraged to speak with officers in the area, their dedicated neighbourhood team on 0151 777 3446, or call 101. Anyone with information who does not wish to speak with us directly can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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