No arrests while Bargoed dispersal orders put in place

Damaged railings around the rugby field at Bargoed Park, left, and smashed glass strewn across the stand

No arrests were made after three dispersal orders were issued in Bargoed over the weekend, Gwent Police has confirmed.

The dispersal orders were in place between 4pm on Friday, April 30 until 4pm on Sunday, May 2.

Which areas were covered by the dispersal orders?

Bargoed Park, Bargoed RFC rugby ground, Park Drive, Moorland Road, Western Drive, Upper Wood Street, Heol- Cae-Derwen, Heolddu Grove, Heolddu Drive and all public spaces and thoroughfares.
Bedwellty Road, Station Road, Angel Way, Bargoed ambulance station and all public spaces and thoroughfares.
Station Road, Bargoed Gateway, Angel Way, Wood Street, Upper Wood Street, Hanbury Square, West Street, Cross Street, Greenfield Street, Francis Street, Ruth Street, South Street, Park Road, Morrisons car park and all public spaces and thoroughfares.

During the dispersal order, police had the power to stop people from entering the chosen areas if they believe they have engaged or will engage in antisocial behaviour.

Anyone who was moved from the area but returned later on during the timeframe faced arrest.

In March, railings around the Bargoed Park rugby pitch, where Bargoed RFC play, were damaged, while smashed glass – believed to be from broken bottles – was left strewn across the park.

A group of around 30 to 40 youths were seen in the area at the time.

Inspector Richard Tovey, of Gwent Police, said: “Following the issuing of the dispersal order on Friday afternoon, we noticed an absence of antisocial behaviour reports in Bargoed over the weekend.

“As part of our plans, we had set up displacement arrangements in the event of moving people onto those areas outside of the dispersal zone, but fortunately we did not see many reports of antisocial behaviour in those places either.

“Officers did not seize any alcohol during the dispersal period and no referrals for antisocial behaviour were issued. No arrests were made either.”

Inspector Tovey added: “My team and I would like to thank the public for their cooperation over the previous weekend.

“Gwent Police regularly works with partners, including the council, to tackle antisocial behaviour which negatively impacts upon the quality of life for residents.

“It will not be tolerated within our communities.”

Last month, a dispersal notice came into force in Newbridge, following on from one in Cefn Fforest and another in Springfield, Pontllanfraith at the start of April.

Gwent Police

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