Gloucestershire Police have implemented a new Section 34 dispersal order aimed at curbing antisocial behaviour in Gloucester city centre. Effective from 3:45 pm on Tuesday, April 21, the order covers a defined area stretching from Black Dog Way and Gouda Way in the north, to Trier Way in the east, Llanthony Road/Castle Meads Way in the west, and St Ann Way/Trier Way in the south.
Under this order, police officers are empowered to instruct groups of two or more people to leave the area for up to 48 hours if their conduct is likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress to the public. The order remains in force until 3:45 pm on Thursday, April 23.
This measure was prompted by repeated reports of a group of intoxicated individuals engaging in violent altercations, making threats, shoplifting, and causing disturbances across the city centre. A similar dispersal order was enforced last week, during which a woman was arrested for violating its terms.
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Inspector James O’Neill of the Gloucester Neighbourhood Policing Team emphasized the commitment to public safety: “We continue to receive complaints about antisocial behaviour linked to intoxicated groups. We will not tolerate actions that put others or themselves at risk. This order serves as a deterrent, and as shown last week, we will act decisively against breaches, including making arrests.”
The police encourage residents and visitors to report any concerning behaviour as they maintain a strong presence to ensure Gloucester city centre remains safe and welcoming for all.