Dispersal order issued for Leicestershire town centre amid 'ongoing' anti-social behaviour

A major dispersal order has been issued for a Leicestershire town centre amid reports of anti-social behaviour. The Section 35 order gives officers extra powers to tackle troublemakers in the area.

The order, which covers Coalville's Belvoir Shopping Centre and its wider car park, came into effect at 5.20pm yesterday (Friday, November 29). It was issued following "ongoing anti-social behaviour" in the town centre.

Officers from Leicestershire Police were deployed to tackle reported issues throughout the evening. The order remains in place on Saturday (November 30), with police issuing a warning it impacts anyone aged over 10 who have caused anti-social behaviour or are deemed likely to cause anti-social behaviour.

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Anyone issued with a dispersal notice must leave the area immediately and can be banned from returning for up to 48 hours. The force said the Section 35 order could be extended if deemed necessary to maintain order in the area.

Those who fail to comply with the dispersal order could face arrest, according to police. The dispersal order is in place until 5.20pm on Saturday.

Leicestershire Police have also issued a message to all parents calling on them to collect their children if they know they are out. They said: "If your young person is out, especially in the Coalville town centre, please get in touch with them. Please consider collecting them where possible."

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