Hampshire police issue dispersal order at Shirley Towers in Southampton

A dispersal order has been issued in the Shirley Towers area amid a spike in anti-social behaviour committed by a group of youths.

Police say they have been ramping up patrols in Shirley, however, the order has been used to clamp down on any further incidents.

It will cover Shirley Towers off Miler Court and the immediate vicinity.

Having been put in place at 2pm today, it will last until midnight.

The order means that officers can tell trouble-makers to leave the area, and if they refuse, it is a criminal offence.

Furthermore, anyone under the age of 16 could be escorted home.

According to Hampshire Constabulary, the section 34 dispersal order is designed to prevent crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour.

Only those who have been, are or likely problems should have cause for concern, the force adds.

Shirley Towers, Southampton

A police spokesperson said: "We are using the dispersal tool as a means to deal with the rise in ASB, whilst supporting the residents in line with our commitment to keeping our communities safe. While our teams have been conducting extra patrols in the area, we are now also making use of a Section 34 dispersal order.

"We have been working closely with our community wardens and Southampton City Council as part of a longer-term solution and this dispersal order is just one tool in the toolbox for dealing with anti-social behaviour.

"If you see our officers and PCSO’s around the Shirley Towers area and want to speak to us, please stop and have a chat about your concerns or comments."

Anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour should call 101.