Weekend dispersal order in force for New Mills and Hayfield

A dispersal order will be in force in New Mills and Hayfield this weekend amid concerns about anti-social behaviour.
Police and residents are concerned about crime in the area.Police and residents are concerned about crime in the area.
Police and residents are concerned about crime in the area.

The order - which will start at 4pm today and end at 4pm on Sunday - will give police officers and PCSOs the power to move anyone who they believe could cause anti-social behaviour or crime in the area for a certain period of time, up to 48 hours.

It has been put in place as officers target recent concerns about large groups of young people gathering and causing damage.

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The order will coincide with the Hayfield May Queen procession, crowning ceremony and fun fair on Saturday.

It will cover most of New Mills and Hayfield, including all public spaces and the surrounding streets.

Children aged 16 or under can be removed to their home address or a place of safety and anyone who refuses to comply with an order to leave an area will be committing an offence and could be arrested.

Officers will also be carrying out extra patrols in the New Mills and Hayfield area over the weekend to help deter anti-social behaviour.

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Inspector Phil Booth, who is in charge of policing in the High Peak, said: "The dispersal order gives officers additional powers to deal with anti-social behaviour proactively, allowing them to move on any individuals we believe may be likely to cause trouble rather than waiting for it to happen.

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"It isn't about making the event a no-go area for all young people, just those who are not behaving sensibly, causing damage and distress for other local residents.

"We simply cannot tolerate anti-social and nuisance behaviour."

He added: "We hope residents and visitors enjoy a safe May Queen event, without it being spoilt by a minority intent on behaving in an unacceptable manner."