Milnrow dispersal order renewed

Inspector Davies

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A Dispersal Order introduced in Milnrow in November 2011 has been renewed and will now run until 11 November 2012.

Police, together with Rochdale Borough Council, implemented the measure after an increase in reports of youth nuisance, criminal damage and alcohol-related problems in the area.

The order enables police to disperse groups of two or more people of any age who are hanging around on the streets or harassing local residents.

Officers are also authorised to escort home young people under 16 who are behaving antisocially, and who are not in the company of a responsible person over 18.

In addition, police can force people to leave an area for up to 24 hours, and if they return within that time they will be arrested.

Inspector Jem Davies of the Pennine Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "The Dispersal Order is being renewed due to there still being unacceptable levels of antisocial behaviour – more than half of all incidents in Milnrow are taking place within the area covered by the order.

"It will only be used against youths and groups of people who are involved in, or are likely to be involved in, antisocial behaviour, and is just one of a number of steps being taken to tackle the issue. Other measures include asking parents to take an active interest in where their children are and what they are doing, and youth services providing more diversionary activities for young people. We will also continue to work very closely with local schools, partners and parents to address this issue.”

Councillor Sultan Ali, Cabinet Member for Strengthening Communities at Rochdale Borough Council, said: Fortunately the vast majority of young people in our borough are a credit to us and they make use of the many activities available to them locally. However, a small minority have been making life a misery for the residents of this particular area and this is simply not acceptable. If people don’t respect their neighbours and communities, we won’t hesitate in taking action against them in partnership with our local police."