Dispersal order and increased police presence in Chester

Racegoers and members of public can expect to see an increased police presence in Chester across the next few days to help keep everyone safe.

Chester is expected to be incredibly busy between Wednesday 7 May and Friday 9 May for the latest fixtures at Chester Racecourse. Additional patrols will be deployed in the city to ensure the safety of members of the public, given the increased footfall.

A dispersal order will also be in place from 10am on Wednesday 7 May until 3am on Thursday 8 May. Further dispersal orders will be in place from 10am on Thursday 8 May until 4am on Friday 9 May, and 10am on Friday 9 May until 10am on Sunday 11 May.

The dispersal orders will allow officers to ban anyone from the city for up to 48 hours to prevent disorder.

It has been imposed under Section 34 of the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, making it an offence for anyone to return to a specific area for up to 48 hours.

The area covered by the order is highlighted in the attached mapped area. The map is provided to anyone issued with a direction to leave.

In addition to the dispersal orders, there will be a police presence both before and after the races to deal with any anti-social behaviour which may arise.

Inspector James Wilson said:

“Thousands of visitors are expecting to be coming to the Chester area this week and we hope everyone enjoys their time here.

“With this in mind, there will be an increased police presence in the area, as well as the dispersal orders in place. These orders are an additional tactical option that allow us to directly combat anti-social behaviour head on.

“I would urge residents and businesses to continue to report any issues with anti-social behaviour.”

Anyone with information about anti-social behaviour in their area is urged to contact Cheshire Police via the Cheshire Police website or call 101.

Pictured - Dispersal order map.