Dispersal order in Thurrock after schools warn of social media group chat
There have been conversations about causing anti-social behaviour at Lakeside Shopping Centre today (Friday 19 December)
Last updated 19th Dec 2025
A dispersal order by Essex Police is in place in Thurrock.
It's following information from local schools about a social media group chat intending to cause increased anti-social behaviour at Lakeside Shopping Centre today (Friday 19 December), which police say may extend into the weekend.
The order has been in place from 11am today until 3am on Sunday (21 December).
Officers say the order has been put in place to prevent crime and disorder and prevent people attending the area being harassed, alarmed or distressed.
Neighbourhood Inspector Daniel Selby, who has authorised this dispersal zone, said: "Our message is a simple one: if you come to Lakeside to behave in an antisocial manner, you will be asked to leave and failure to comply may result in further action.
"The purpose is to provide safety and security to members of the public in the lakeside shopping centre whilst there is an expected increase in footfall due the time of year.
"My ask of parents is that, make sure you know where your children are and to make sure you are able to contact them.
"The dispersal order gives officers powers to move anyone believed to be behaving anti-socially from the area.
"There will be additional patrols from police and dedicated Lakeside security officers. Lakeside shopping centre does not allow face covering to be worn within and you will be asked to leave and parents may be contacted."