Dispersal zone introduced in Liscard after rise in antisocial behaviour

A dispersal order is in place in Liscard, Wirral

A dispersal zone has been put in place on part of Merseyside in response to increased reports of anti-social behaviour.

The order, which began at 2pm today (February 9) and will last for 48 hours until 2pm on Sunday February 11, gives officers the power to seize any item used in the commission of anti-social behaviour in the area where the zone is in place.

Covering Liscard on the Wirral, specifically Wallasey Road, Liscard Road, Parkside, Hampstead Road, Poulton Road, Oxton Road, Love Lane, Greenheys Road, Leominster Road, Mill Lane and St Albans, the order also encompasses Liscard Way and Central Park, with police officers visible in the area to deal with any incidents.

The order comes under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour & Policing Act 2014, which gives police officers and police community support traffic officers powers to direct people who are engaging in antisocial behaviour or are likely to become involved in such incidents. Police say these powers will not be used for anyone visiting the area and going about their daily business.

Should a person who has previously been directed to leave the area return, an offence would be committed, which they may ultimately be arrested for.

Wirral Community Policing Inspector Sharon Robinson: “We have proactively put this dispersal zone in place in response to reports involving anti-social behaviour in the area, which is having a significant impact on businesses and people visiting Liscard town centre and Central Park.

“We have increased patrols in the area to deal with any issues, and this dispersal zone gives officers in the area extra powers to approach people they suspect may be there to commit anti-social behaviour or other crimes.

“This order is to ensure residents and businesses are not subjected to any such behaviour, and I would ask people to continue reporting any concerns and we will take action.

“I would urge parents and guardians to know where young people in your care are, to further assist us in dealing with those who cause trouble.

“If you witness any anti-social behaviour or have any information about such incidents, please contact or speak to our officers and we will take action.”

Don’t miss the biggest and breaking stories by signing up to the Echo Daily newsletter here