Crackdown on harassment on roads

A dispersal order has been granted for dual carriageway roads in Hertfordshire after complaints about speeding vehicles and anti-social behaviour.

Police are cracking down on roads in Stevenage and have been given special powers for the next six months.

They can now disperse groups or persons causing harassment on several roads and dual carriageways in the town.

Individuals asked to leave an area must not return within 24 hours and can be arrested if they do.

Ch Insp Fiona Gaskell said: "In recent weeks we have received more than 30 complaints from members of the public about the behaviour of a group of individuals.

"Officers have carried out a number of operations to put an end to racing, which sees cars exceeding the 40mph speed limit.

"Large groups are also cycling along main roads in Stevenage intentionally blocking other vehicles from getting past and obstructing police in their duties.

"We are doing our utmost to ensure that the people living and travelling through Stevenage are safe."