Dispersal order in Kirkholt and Kingsway

A dispersal order is being introduced in Kirkholt and Kingsway in a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour and improve the quality of life for local people.

Police and the Council’s Safer Communities Partnership are implementing the measure following an increase in the number of reports of youth nuisance and criminal damage in these areas.

The dispersal order forms part of the Anti Social Behaviour Act 2003 and will be in place for six months from 1 March in Kingsway and 10 March in Kirkholt.

It provides police with the power to disperse groups of two or more people of any age who are in the designated area for no good reason.

After 9pm officers are also authorised to escort home young people under 16 years of age found to be taking part in anti-social behaviour, or not in the company of a responsible person over 18.

Inspector Michelle Hughes, Neighbourhood Inspector for Rochdale South, said: "When dispersal orders have been used on previous occasions in Rochdale, they have proved to be very effective in reducing anti-social behaviour.

“After consulting with our partners and local residents we believe these orders will form a significant part of our approach to tackling crime and disorder in the town.

"It will only be used against groups of people who are involved in, or are likely to be involved in anti-social behaviour. It is just one of a number of steps being taken to tackle this problem.”

Jeanette Staley, Acting Safer Communities Manager at Rochdale Borough Council, added: “We fully support these dispersal orders that are designed to improve the quality of life for residents in Kingsway and Kirkholt. This action by the police will prevent antisocial behaviour before it has had a chance to start. We are confident local people will see a noticeable improvement in their community.”