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June news

Dispersal area agreed at multi-agency meeting in Portsmouth

Members of the Safer Portsmouth Partnership have agreed to impose a dispersal area for the summer across an area larger than has ever been done before, covering the Camber Docks right up to the end of the Southsea seafront.

In the last few years dispersal areas across Southsea seafront have been put in place throughout the summer months, in order to maintain the area for all residents and visitors.

The dispersal area for 2008 has been provisionally agreed to come into effect on June 30, and run until October 31. It begins at the Camber Docks and runs along the seafront, and inland to Pembroke Road, where the edge of the area then runs along Southsea Terrace and Western Parade, and then on to Clarence Parade. From here it goes up to Clarendon Road, along Granada Road and up St Helen's Parade, stopping at the pavilion.

Dispersal areas are discretionary powers given to the police to separate groups and diffuse any issues they may cause. Concerns include anti-social behaviour, rowdy and inconsiderate conduct, underage drinking and proxy sales of alcohol. Those taking part in pier jumping or 'tomb stoning' may also be dispersed in some situations using these powers.

There are historical problems that have been experienced by businesses and visitors as well as residents throughout the area, with groups who are loud, disruptive and intimidating, sometimes as a result of alcohol.

The partners are keen to stress they do not wish to stop anyone having a good time, and encourage the use of Southsea seafront and the Camber dock as the warm weather and summer holidays approach.

Inspector Steve Hutchings, from Southsea police station, said: "I'd like to make clear these powers are a discretionary tool for officers on patrol and it's something we tend to use almost as a last resort. We are not out to ruin anyone's fun, however a balance must be struck with so many using these areas in the summer and so we are looking to maintain this balance for everyone's benefit.

"Southsea is a very popular area and rightly so, and if we all work together we can ensure visitors and residents alike can enjoy the attractions."

Roy Goulding, Anti-Social Behaviour Unit Manager at Portsmouth City Council, said: "We want to encourage residents and visitors to get out and enjoy the seafront's many attractions, which is why we have been working closely with the police and other partner organisations to put this dispersal order in place.

"The dispersal order will enable the police to tackle anti-social behaviour and will give them an additional power to address the issue of 'tomb stoning', making the seafront a safer and more pleasant place that everyone can enjoy."

Date : 24 June 2008