RESIDENTS in Terrington St Clement will benefit from a new measure giving police extra powers to deal with anti-social behaviour. From Monday, parts of the village will be made subject to a dispersal order to curb groups of people gathering and causing a

RESIDENTS in Terrington St Clement will benefit from a new measure giving police extra powers to deal with anti-social behaviour.

From Monday, parts of the village will be made subject to a dispersal order to curb groups of people gathering and causing a nuisance.

The order gives police officers and PCSOs the power to move on groups of two or more people who they believe are causing or could cause problems.

It follows on-going work by the Terrington Neighbourhood Policing Team working and partners, including the borough council and housing associations, to help improve the quality of life for local residents.

Terrington Sgt Sam Pontin said: "Terrington is not plagued with anti-social behaviour but there are certain areas where groups tend to gather, which can annoy or disturb nearby residents.

"The point of the order is to encourage people to use public areas in a responsible way and is one of a range of measures we use to reduce or curb anti-social behaviour."

Areas in Terrington subject to the dispersal order include Churchgate Way, including the doctor's surgery and car park, the recreation ground, including all childrens' play area, and the residential and parking areas of Benns Lane.

These are areas already targeted by police for regular high visibility patrols following complaints by local residents relating to anti-social vehicle use, the playing of loud music, groups gathering, drinking, swearing and vandalising village equipment.

Section 59 warning notices have been issued by police to a number of youths caught driving in an anti-social way or making excessive noise. Those drivers could have their vehicles seized or face criminal proceedings if they or their vehicle are stopped again in the same circumstances.

The police and council are also exploring the option of using mobile CCTV in the village to discourage and disrupt anti-social behaviour.

Under the order, people can be barred from an area for 24 hours and failure to comply with this direction can lead to arrest. Anyone under 16 caught misbehaving can be escorted home by police officers.

The police team works regularly with partner agencies to address community issues identified by local residents. To contact Terrington Safer Neighbourhood Team call 0845 456 4567.