Police extend powers to tackle anti-social behaviour

Measures to control anti-social behaviour in Studley, south Warwickshire, have been extended from this month. Stratford Police can now use powers available to them under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 to break up groups of youths who congregate in the High Street and Sports Ground.

The powers are part of a package of measures devised by Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwickshire Police to address anti-social behaviour in this part of the village. As well as the Dispersal Order, there will be enhanced policing which should result in a greater visible presence of uniformed police officers on the beat.

Cllr Juliet Short, Stratford-on-Avon District Council Portfolio Holder with responsibility for Community Safety stressed that active policing was only part of the solution. "The Council are working closely with our residents' groups to make sure that there are some positive measures in place to attract young people. The youth club already opens on three nights and the basketball cage has recently been re-surfaced. We hope to offer more activities, such as a disco and cinema club, after Christmas."

The Dispersal Order applies to the High Street, Alcester Road and the Sports ground and will be in place from 1 December 2005 to 31 May 2006. The Order allows the police to instruct people in a group to leave the area and not to return for up to 24 hours. If a person remains in or returns to the area after being asked to leave, they may be arrested.

"Although our figures show that the level of recorded crime in Studley has fallen considerably over the last twelve months, we are still receiving regular reports of anti-social behaviour from the village centre," said Inspector Emma Walton.

"Despite the fact that Warwickshire is still the safest place to be, this sort of behaviour leads to a feeling of fear amongst local residents. We need to send a message that behaviour which goes beyond normal high spirits isn't acceptable and I am confident that the dispersal powers will help us police the area."

Figures show that in 2004/5 there were just under 62 crimes per 1,000 population in Warwickshire, compared with the national average of 105 crimes per 1,000, making Warwickshire one of the safest counties in the country.