Tunbridge Wells dispersal order in place

A dispersal order has been put in place this weekend to deter anti-social behaviour in Tunbridge Wells.

The order came into effect at 2pm on Friday 14 June and will remain in place until 23.59pm on Saturday 15 June.

It covers the town centre and St John’s area, and has been implemented due to ongoing concerns relating to issues caused by a small minority of young people in some public areas including parks.

These have included under-age street drinking, smashing of glass bottles and reports of aggressive behaviour towards staff at shops and takeaways. 

Inspector Christian Mayers from the West Kent Community Safety Unit said: ‘We are continuing to operate enhanced patrols across several areas where residents and business have been raising concerns. 'The dispersal order grants our officers additional powers to order anyone causing a nuisance to move on. Anyone who ignores an order to leave and returns will face arrest.’