Extra powers for officers amid Thanet events

Dispersal orders have been put in place across most of Thanet as an increased number of visitors are expected this weekend.

A number of public events will be taking place such as the start of Folk Week in Broadstairs, Margate Pride, and several music events hosted at Dreamland. In anticipation for bigger crowds in the area, a number of section 34 dispersal orders have been authorised, which gives officers increased powers to tackle antisocial behaviour.

May face arrest

From 4pm on Friday 7 August 2026, anyone suspected to be behaving in an antisocial manner in Broadstairs, Ramsgate, or Margate town centres and seafronts will be asked to move on or face arrest if they fail to do so. The same applies to anyone behaving antisocially at the railway stations.

Anyone returning after being asked to leave also risks being taken into custody. Items which are being used in an antisocial manner, such as loud music equipment, may also be seized.

Chief Inspector Ian Swallow said:

‘This is set to be an exceptionally busy weekend in Thanet, with multiple events expected to bring visitors and communities together. We want everyone to enjoy what our towns have to offer safely and responsibly. ‘Officers will be out on the streets throughout the weekend to support the safe facility of events and to engage with residents and visitors. While the vast majority of people will be there to enjoy themselves, anyone found behaving in an antisocial manner can expect to be dealt with promptly and robustly. We are determined to make sure that a small group of people do not ruin the weekend for those simply looking to enjoy themselves.’

The orders, coupled with high visibility patrols are part of the robust plans put in place by Kent Police to tackle antisocial behaviour along the coast as visitor numbers to the area increase over the summer period.