Dispersal zone comes into force

A dispersal zone aimed at cutting anti-social behaviour has been introduced at a Devon seaside resort.

It follows more than 27 incidents over the past six months at Victoria Park multi-storey car park in Paignton.

Police said these include acts of violence, criminal damage, graffiti and items being thrown to the ground.

The order gives officers the power to disperse groups of people whose behaviour is causing or is likely to cause distress or intimidation.

The public have the right to feel safe Sergeant Steve Rooke, Devon and Cornwall police

The car park has a reputation as being popular with so-called boy racers and skateboarders and there have been a number of complaints from local residents.

Sergeant Steve Rooke from Devon and Cornwall Police said: "The public have the right to feel safe.

"It's unacceptable if they cannot use car parks because of threatening behaviour and groups of people hanging around."

Cllr Louisa Aiton, from Torbay council said: "The decision to implement the order has not been taken lightly.

"It is important to remember that it is a small number of individuals that have been involved in anti- social behaviour in the area."

Under the new rules young people under 16 found in the area after 2100 BST may be taken home by a police officer.

If groups refuse to disperse when asked they face a fine of up to £2,500 or imprisonment.

The order will be in force for six months until February 2009, when it will be reviewed and possibly continued.