Dispersal order in place over anti-social behaviour

The dispersal order covers an area of central Basingstoke

A dispersal order has been put in place in Basingstoke following reports of anti-social behaviour and retail crime in the town centre.

Hampshire Constabulary said there had been incidents of shoplifting, criminal damage, theft and anti-social behaviour as well as reports of young people causing issues in the town centre and being abusive to retail staff.

The order, under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 allows police to order a person to leave the area for a specified period.

It has been authorised to cover an area of the town - including Festival Place and the train station - from 08:00 BST on Wednesday until 02:00 on 8 August.

Children between the ages of 10 and 16 who are issued with dispersal notices will be taken home to their parents or guardians, police said.

Insp Charlie Ilderton said: "We are continuing to take all reports of youth-related anti-social behaviour extremely seriously which is why we have implemented a dispersal order this week.

"We want our young people to enjoy the warmer weather and spend time outdoors, but any youth-related anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and offenders will be dealt with robustly.

"We know that anti-social behaviour and any associated criminality can make life miserable for local residents and businesses, but please be reassured that we are determined to put a stop to it and target the individuals involved.