Police handed tougher powers to tackle ASB in town near Sheffield

Areas highlighted where police have been granted tougher powers to tackle anti-social behaviour in Dronfield

Strict public dispersal orders have been implemented across Dronfield stretching from Sindelfingen Park right across to Stonelow Junior School.

The order, which came into place on yesterday, covers areas including the Civic Centre and Pentland Road shops. The order lasts until 1pm on Sunday, June 21.

Derbyshire Police were granted the order in response to complaints from business owners and residents.

The order means that police will be able to move on anyone who is taking part in ‘nuisance activity’.

Officers can also disperse people that they think might be about to act anti-socially, rather than waiting for it to happen.

Dispersal orders were previously used to tackle alcohol-related crime but they now cover a range of anti-social behaviour offences.

A Derbyshire Police spokesman said: “Children aged 16 or under can be removed to their home address or a place of safety, and anyone moved on under the powers can be prohibited from going back there for a certain period of time.

“Anyone who refuses to comply with an order to leave an area will be committing an offence and could be arrested.”