In Essex, a new dispersal order came into force at the beginning of the month giving police more powers to tackle anti-social behaviour in Basildon town centre.
The order covers the whole town centre and gives police officers extra powers to disperse groups of two or more people causing anti-social behaviour.
Once dispersed, they can’t be able to return to the area for 24 hours and anyone who fails to comply can be arrested.
The Basildon Community Safety Partnership (CSP), which is made up of over 20 organisations including Essex Police and Basildon Council, has agreed to fund additional police patrols in the town centre over a three month period to ensure maximum impact.
It has been introduced as a temporary measure, until the Designated Public Place Order (DPPO) comes into effect.
Members of the Licensing Committee agreed to a consultation to introduce a DPPO to the town centre and surrounding parts. If brought in, it will provide police officers and PCSOs with permanent powers to control the consumption of alcohol in the town centre.
Anyone found drinking alcohol in the DPPO area could be asked to stop, or have the alcohol confiscated. Failure to comply with the request could result in arrest and a maximum fine of £500.
Chief Insp Rachel Nolan, Basildon district commander, said: "I am pleased that the new dispersal order will give police an additional tool in tackling anti-social behaviour in the town centre.
"It will allow officers to break up groups of people who are causing a nuisance in the area, and anyone who returns within 24 hours will be dealt with accordingly.”
Councillor Frank Tomlin, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Community Safety, added: "This is an excellent example of partnership working and these new powers are a welcome addition in our fight against anti-social behaviour.
"We are committed to ensuring that Basildon town centre can be enjoyed by residents and visitors without the blight of anti-social behaviour that can spoil it for so many. This new dispersal order will be a short-term intervention to address the problem prior to the DPPO coming into effect.”
