Dispersal order comes into force to tackle antisocial behaviour in town centre

A dispersal order has been put in place in Blackwood town centre in an attempt to tackle antisocial behaviour in the area.

The order came into force at 11am on Wednesday, October 27 and will remain until 2.30am on Friday, October 29.

Gwent Police, which has put the order in place, said it has done so in response to “reports of large gatherings and disorderly behaviour in the town centre on Tuesday, October 26”.

The areas where the order will be in effect include Blackwood bus station, the marketplace, McDonald’s, KFC and surrounding stores.

Cliff Road, Hall Street, Bridge Street, Gordon Road, Coronation Road, Pentwyn Avenue, Sunnybank Road (including gravel lane), Wesley road, and Blackwood retail park are also covered by the order.

Police will have the power to stop people from entering these areas between this time if they believe they have engaged or will engage in antisocial behaviour.

If they return to those areas after being moved on, they face being arrested.

Gwent Police Inspector Andrew Boucher said: “Protecting communities and tackling antisocial behaviour is a priority for Gwent Police.

“This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and we’ll continue to take action against anyone causing disorder and harm in our communities.

“As we head into the Halloween period, we’d ask that parents ensure they know where their children are at all times, particularly while the dispersal order is in effect.”

Blackwood ward councillor Kevin Etheridge said: “Councillors are working in partnership with the police and community safety officers concerning the dispersal order. I would urge residents to ring 101 and report all incidents.”