Dispersal order issued after anti-social behaviour

Google Streetview image looking towards Southwater Square in Telford, with a Cineworld cinema on the left and Premier Inn directly ahead
The Section 35 order was prompted by anti-social behaviour in the Southwater area, police said [Google]

A dispersal order has been issued for a town centre due to anti-social behaviour.

The Section 35 order is focused on the Southwater, shopping centre and town park areas of Telford, Shropshire.

West Mercia Police said it would give officers extra powers to move on individuals over the age of 10 who were responsible for anti-social behaviour.

The force said it was in response to incidents involving youths in the Southwater area on Saturday evening and lasts until 19:40 GMT on Monday.

"The aim of the order is to prevent the minority from ruining it for the majority trying to go about their normal business in peace and for us to provide reassurance to the public," Insp Jodie Davies said.

"The dispersal order provides police officers additional powers to exclude individuals from the town centre if they choose to act in an inappropriate way."

West Mercia Police said there would also be more officers on patrol.

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