Police dispersal order to tackle anti-social behaviour at Lakeside
Officers aim to ensure safety as summer holidays begin
A dispersal order has been implemented at Lakeside shopping centre and its surrounding areas, effective from 12pm today (Friday 17th July) until 12pm on Sunday 19th July.
This measure aims to prevent anti-social behaviour during the start of the summer holidays.
Police will have the authority to disperse groups if they anticipate harassment, alarm, distress, or potential crime.
The dispersal order covers Lakeside and the area enclosed by Arterial Road West Thurrock, West Thurrock Way, the A126, and Chafford Hundred train station and its surrounding roads.
Inspector Christopher Hay emphasised the significance of this action, "We know how strongly our communities feel about anti-social behaviour, which is why we’re exercising these powers this weekend.
"We regularly see the numbers of young people visiting Lakeside increase during school holidays, and we expect the start of the summer holidays to follow the same pattern.
"I want to make it clear – there is no excuse for those visiting to intimidate others, behave anti-socially, or commit crime.
"My officers and I are working closely with the security teams at the centre, as well as schools, to ensure everyone can enjoy visiting Lakeside this weekend.”
The Essex force says this initiative reflects the police’s commitment to collaborating with local partners to create a safe and pleasant environment for visitors.