Dispersal order in place in Chester to keep residents and festive visitors safe

A dispersal order will be put in place across Chester city centre this weekend, as we enter the last few weeks before Christmas.

There is expected to be increased footfall in Chester city centre this weekend as people enjoy Christmas festivities.

A dispersal order will therefore be in place from 4pm today (Friday 12 December), until 4pm on Sunday 14 December. The dispersal order will allow officers to ban anyone from the area 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 map attached. The map is also provided to anyone issued with a direction to leave.

Inspector James Wilson said:

“As a result of the increased footfall we are expecting in Chester, there will be an increased police presence in the city centre and a dispersal order in place to keep everyone safe.

“The powers will enable officers to deal with incidents at an early stage before they escalate.

“I would also continue to urge residents and businesses to report any issues to us.”

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