Weekend dispersal zone in Southport

Southport from 3pm tomorrow until 3pm Monday 6 November. The dispersal zone will Marine Drive, Esplanade, Promenade, Coronation Walk, Portland Street, Talbot Street, Eastbank Street, Virginia Street, Southport Railway Station, Hall Street, Hawkshead Street, Queens Road, Park Road, Park Road West, Promenade and Fairway.

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.

Commander for the policing operation, Chief Inspector Duncan Swan said: “Please be assured that our officers will continue to provide a high visibility presence over the weekend. Stop searches will be carried out and large groups of people will be dispersed so that they behave responsibly and our communities are kept safe.

“The purpose of the dispersal order is to break up those depositing wood and waste material which contribute to anti-social behaviour.

“Just in the last week more than 55 tonnes of rubbish have cleared from sites which have been dangerously oversized bonfires built close to homes and in public areas. The rubbish removal has been a joint operation with Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service and Liverpool City Council.

“These unsafe and unregulated bonfires attract large groups of people which poses a real public safety risk and restricts road access – and more importantly prevents emergency services getting to major incidents where lives could be at risk.

“I must stress that these bonfires unofficial bonfires pose real safety concerns to the public.”

Residents can take some steps to prevent fires from occurring over the weekend by bringing in your wheelie bins so they cannot be set on fire. We also ask that you do not give combustible materials to anyone.

Chief Inspector Swan added: “We do want everyone to enjoy themselves but in a safe and responsible manner. I urge you to attend organised events and bonfire displays taking place so that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time without any incidents occurring.

“I would like to remind parents, and guardians, to know where your child is and what they are up to – just imagine if it was your loved one who was on the receiving end of their irresponsible actions. It also for their own safety and welfare. But ultimately your child could face being arrested and end up with a criminal record, which could prevent them from achieving their ambitions in the future.”

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 Crime stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.