A dispersal order has been put in place after reports of youth intimidating staff near a city supermarket. 

Police have been granted a Section 34 dispersal order in the area surrounding Sainsbury's at Lordshill District Centre. 

It follows reports of youth antisocial behaviour and acts of intimidation towards staff at nearby businesses. 

The order gives officers the power to seize anything used to carry out antisocial behaviour and order people to leave the area with no return for a specified time.

Those who refuse could be arrested. 

The area covered by a dispersal orde rin LordshillThe area covered by a dispersal orde rin Lordshill (Image: Hampshire Constabulary)

The extra powers came into effect at 3pm on Wednesday (October 9) and will continue until 11.59pm this evening (October 11). 

Police Sergeant Veal, said: “We will be conducting high visibility patrols in this area to reassure the public and deal with any issues.

"Tackling such behaviour in our local communities remains a district priority for our officers and teams.

“We are conducting enquiries to identify those involved in the antisocial behaviour, and associated criminality, and will take robust action if deemed appropriate.

“Our Neighbourhoods Policing Team are working closely with our partners – including the affected businesses - in order to resolve these ongoing issues and ensure that residents of Lordshill remain safe.

“If you see any of our officers and you have information regarding recent incidents of antisocial behaviour in this area, please do stop them and let them know.

"Alternatively, you can report any information you may have online via the Hampshire Constabulary website or by calling 101.”

Those who are aged under 16 will be taken to their home address and follow-up work will be done with parents. 

The powers could be extended if police feel it necessary.