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News

Poole's First Section 30 Dispersal Notice

Dorset Police working in partnership with the Borough of Poole have responded to the current spate of anti-social behaviour in Bearwood by imposing the Borough's first Section 30 Dispersal Notice under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003.

The designated area is centred on the Somerfield store and King John playing fields and takes in the surrounding areas of Runnymede Avenue, King John Avenue and Knights Road and some adjoining alleyways.  The Notice will be in force from today (3rd June) until the 3rd October and will allow the police to disperse groups of more than two people within the area if they believe they are causing anti-social behaviour. If they fail to comply or return within 24 hours they can be arrested.

The notice, which applies to any age group, was approved after evidence was collected of persistent anti-social behaviour in the area including underage drinking, abuse and criminal damage.

PC Simon Bridge, Community Beat Officer for Bearwood, said: "This Dispersal Notice will allow the Police to more effectively respond to the current problems of anti-social behaviour in Bearwood and disperse some of the large groups who have taken to gathering in the area.  Often these groups are peaceful but on occasion residents have been intimidated and property damaged through the drunken behaviour of a few individuals.  This Notice sends a message to these people that their behaviour will not be tolerated and we will take action to prevent it."

Ian Cooke, Anti-Social Behaviour Co-ordinator, Housing & Community Services, Borough of Poole, said: "This is Poole's first Section 30 Notice and we have worked closely with the police and youth services and will continue to do so to ensure the measure reflects the problems and will be successful. It will bring some respite to the community who have suffered because of the behaviour of a handful of thoughtless, anti-social people."

Cllr Bill Wretham, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Borough of Poole, said: “It is important not to tar all young people with the same brush but we recognise there are a number of individuals who have persistently caused problems and brought misery to local people. This sends out a strong message to those that we will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and I applaud the police and Council for taking this line.”

Ian Cooke, Anti-Social behaviour Co-ordinator, Housing & Community Services, Borough of Poole, tel 01202 633516