Police introduce fifth zone since last December

Police have rolled out a fifth dispersal ward in the borough in six months.

Following complaints from residents and traders, police officers and PCSOs will able to disperse groups of two or more in a number of roads in the Stonebridge ward until November 11.

The initiative is a result of police receiving a catalogue of reported incidents which include drug use and dealing, fighting, intimidating behaviour and people urinating in the street.

The dispersal order covers Bruce Road, Alric Avenue, Selwyn Road, Hazeldean Road, Casselden Road and Sawyer Court.

It also includes any public place and communal spaces within the map area (pictured).

Under the measures, if an individual is asked to move on they are not allowed to return to the area within 24 hours and if they refuse to budge they can be arrested.

Police and PCSOs will regularly patrol the dispersal areas and anyone convicted of breaching the order can face up to three months in jail or a fine of up to �2,500.

Cllr Lincoln Beswick MBE, Brent Council’s lead member for crime prevention and public safety said: “Dispersal orders have proved to be effective in reducing anti-social behaviour and will continue to be used in conjunction with other activities.”