Police turn off Wifi, play classical music to tackle anti-social behaviour at Chesterfield McDonald's
Officers used some unusual tactics to stop large groups of young people causing trouble
Last updated 13th Aug 2026
Derbyshire Police have used some unusual tactics, including playing classical music, in a successful bid to tackle anti-social behaviour at Chesterfield's McDonald's.
It comes after issues last summer, when officers were getting dozens of calls about large groups of young people gathering at the restaurant and fighting, threatening staff and damaging property.
Officers came up with a plan to tackle the porblem behaviour, with warnings issued, seating areas within the restaurant closed off and WiFi and phone charging points also turned off at certain times of day.
Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust was also involved in organising activities to keep youngsters out of trouble.
It's seen a 70% reduction in callouts in July 2026, compared with the year before.
Inspector Josh Carter of Derbyshire Police said: “No one should feel unsafe when trying to do their job or visit a business. Whilst there is some tolerance for ‘kids to be kids’, the behaviour seen here clearly went beyond acceptable limits.
“The reduction in the number of incidents recorded has been across different weathers and school holidays, so is a promising indicator of the improvements made. Thank you to all those involved who took measures to achieve this.
“This shows the power of a joined up, partnership approach to tackle problem behaviour. We will continue to focus on this as part of the Chesterfield Town Centre Partnership, a project that brings together local partners to keep Chesterfield safe.”
Walter Wright, who owns and operates Chesterfield McDonald’s said; “I’m incredibly proud of the work that we have done with Derbyshire Police to help reduce crime outside of our Chesterfield McDonald’s."
"It is important to me that everyone in Chesterfield has an enjoyable experience and feels safe when visiting our restaurant. I’m pleased to see the results of our hard work, and I am honoured that McDonald’s has played its part.”