Gloucestershire Police have implemented a dispersal order in Cheltenham town centre following multiple reports of dangerous and anti-social behaviour involving teenagers riding bikes recklessly over the weekend.
The Section 34 dispersal order commenced at 12:40 pm on Saturday, June 27, and remains in effect until 12:40 pm on Monday, June 29. It covers key areas including St Margaret’s Road to the north, Bath Road to the east, Gloucester Road to the west, and St George’s Road and Oriel Road to the south.
This measure was introduced after numerous incidents were reported on Saturday, where a large group of youths rode bikes dangerously through pedestrian zones, putting the public at risk by narrowly missing individuals.
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The order grants officers the authority to instruct anyone whose conduct is likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress to leave the designated area and prohibit their return during the order’s duration.
Inspector Jo Carroll-Stevens of the Cheltenham Local Policing Team emphasized the police’s commitment to community safety: “We responded to several reports of teenagers cycling dangerously in the town yesterday. Our aim is to curb this behaviour and ensure public safety.
“We will not tolerate any irresponsible actions that endanger either the individuals involved or the wider public.
“This order is intended to deter such disruptive behaviour, making Cheltenham a safer and more pleasant place for everyone.”
Residents experiencing anti-social behaviour are encouraged to contact the police by calling 101. In cases where a crime is occurring and offenders are still present, the emergency number 999 should be dialed immediately.