Police issued a 48-hour dispersal order at lakeside shopping centre and the surrounding public spaces in Thurrock from 12 noon on Friday 22 May until 12 noon on Sunday 24 May. The order gives officers power to move on people committing anti-social behaviour or appearing likely to do so across the centre and nearby public areas.
Inspector Daniel Selby said police would deal quickly with anyone not behaving and that failure to comply is an arrestable offence. He said Lakeside usually gets busy over a Bank Holiday weekend, that the weekend was expected to be really warm, and that the start of half term can bring large groups of young people to the centre.
Daniel Selby on Lakeside
“The order means we can quickly deal with anyone who's not behaving and large groups can be loud and disruptive. We won't allow a minority to spoil the shopping experience for everyone else,” Selby said ahead of the dispersal order being issued. He added: “Lakeside always gets busy over a Bank Holiday weekend and we're expecting this weekend to be really warm.”
Selby also said: “We have plans in place to make sure if you're visiting you'll be safe and have a great time.” He linked the order to the start of half term, saying: “As this also marks the start of half term, we know that sometimes this can lead to large groups of young people coming to Lakeside.”
Police powers at Thurrock
The order applies to Lakeside shopping centre and surrounding public spaces in Thurrock. It allows officers to order individuals who are committing anti-social behaviour, or who appear likely to commit it, to leave the area. Police issued it in a bid to thwart potential anti-social behaviour during a busy period.
Selby said: “And while most people just come to enjoy everything the centre has to offer, this can sometimes lead to anti-social behaviour.” He added: “I'll be clear though – if you come here planning to commit crime, disorder, or anti-social behaviour we will deal with you.”
Sunday 24 May deadline
The dispersal order runs until 12 noon on Sunday 24 May. Failure to comply with a Dispersal Order is an arrestable offence, giving visitors and nearby businesses a clear enforcement line for the rest of the weekend.
