Police to use dispersal order in Millbrook near Towers and shops

Officers have permission to use special powers around Millbrook Towers from 3pm, until Sunday at the same time.

This is the third dispersal order to be issued in the neighbourhood in the last month and a half, and will allow police to ask large groups to move on.

Those who fail to comply will be arrested.

This is in response to residents reporting "an increase in criminal damage, anti-social behaviour and young people congregating in the area in an intimidating manner".

The order covers Millbrook Towers, Windermere Avenue and Mansel Park, which a Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson described as “hotspots” for anti-social behaviour.

Hampshire Constabulary's map of the order

Southampton West Neighbourhood Inspector Sarah Nicholson added: “We have issued several of these orders in the last few weeks and they are having a positive effect – so we are continuing to use them to tackle the minority of young people who choose to behave this way.

“A dispersal zone allows officers to intervene early before a person’s behaviour has the chance to escalate into full-blown crime and disorder.

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“If necessary, the zone could also be extended beyond the 48 hour period.

“I want to reassure the community that we are working hard with our partners on a long-term solution to the issues they are facing.”

Officers will be carrying out high visibility patrols and conducting enquiries to identify those involved in antisocial behaviour.

People with information that could help them should stop them and let them know.

Alternatively, report any information online via the Hampshire Constabulary website or by calling 101.

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