Police say new zone is a success

Police in an area of Nottinghamshire have said new powers to break up groups of young people causing trouble have been a success.

Since the dispersal order was put in place on 26 February in Edwinstowe, 90 young people have been moved on from the town centre.

In addition, three youths have been arrested for possession of drugs, criminal damage and disorderly conduct.

Insp Andy Gan said the order was "having a positive impact" on the area.

'Reducing complaints'

"The dispersal zone is one of the ways we are hoping to reduce a large number of complaints from residents and businesses about congregations of young people on the streets, some of whom were committing damage," Insp Gan said.

"Dispersal zones have been successful in other areas across Nottinghamshire and we are already seeing a positive impact in Edwinstowe."

If a police officer or community support officer sees two or more people within the zone and they believe they might harass or intimidate members of the public, the officers have powers to ask the people to leave the area.

Officers are also able to seize alcohol and take anyone under the age of 16 home after 2100 GMT if they are seen in the zone causing trouble.