Dispersal Orders to tackle anti-social behaviour in Salford
Two dispersal orders aimed at clamping down on anti-social behaviour and increasing safety come into force in Salford this Sunday (1 June).A dispersal order in Irlam and Cadishead will run for three months until 1 September and another running in and around the docks at Salford Quays will run for five months until 1 November.
Greater Manchester Police, with backing from Salford City Council, is implementing these measures in response to long-running problems with youths causing annoyance in and around Irlam Locks and with large groups of adults, youths and children congregating at Salford Quays and drinking, being abusive and jumping from bridges.
The orders will be active 24 hours a day, and will give police the power to disperse two or more people within designated zones if they are making, or are likely to make, people feel intimidated or distressed.
Officers can also ask people who do not live in the order area to leave and not return within 24 hours, and after 11pm they are authorised to escort home any child they believe is under 16 and not with a responsible adult.
Anyone who refuses to comply is committing a criminal offence and could risk a fine or imprisonment of up to three months.
Chief Superintendent Kevin Mulligan, Divisional Commander for Salford, said: “Dispersal orders have been proven to work, and we hope to send a clear message to people that anti-social behaviour, intimidation or criminal damage will not be tolerated.
“When a dispersal order was in effect in Salford Quays during the period 1 May to 31 August 2007, we saw reductions of 60 per cent in violent crime, 47 per cent in criminal damage and 21 per cent in anti-social behaviour compared with the same period in 2006.
“We also want residents to feel reassured that we are taking positive action with our partners to tackle these problems, and I would ask that parents and guardians take responsibility for their children’s actions and work with us to prevent young people becoming involved in anti-social behaviour.”
Salford Council’s Lead Member for Community Safety, Councillor David Lancaster, added: "In imposing this order we're responding to the concerns of residents who have reported numerous disturbances, particularly during the summer months. However, it also allows us to put a stop to any dangerous behaviour, both for the benefit of those acting recklessly and those who may be passing by.”
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