Swindon town centre dispersal order issued amid rise in anti-social behaviour
Police respond to disturbances around Fleming Way and bus boulevard
Last updated 8th Aug 2026
A dispersal order has been authorised for Swindon town centre following increased reports of anti-social behaviour in the area.
Activated under Section 34 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, the order was issued shortly before 4pm on 7th August in response to recent disturbances primarily in Fleming Way and the bus boulevard.
Reports focus on groups congregating, consuming alcohol and drugs, conveying fear among the public regarding safety.
The dispersal order empowers officers to remove and exclude persons from designated areas for up to 48 hours, with non-compliance potentially leading to arrest and charges.
The dispersal zone encompasses Fleming Way and the immediate vicinity of the bus station.
Sgt Ed Rogers detailed the rationale behind the order, referencing an earlier incident on Friday where Central South Neighbourhoods Policing Team enforced the Town Centre Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).
The PSPO prohibits alcohol consumption in open spaces, carrying a £100 fine for infractions.
A woman in her 40s was arrested and charged with public order offences, and failure to comply with an alcohol-related directive, and is expected to appear in court in September.
Sgt Rogers emphasised, "Swindon Neighbourhood Policing Teams will not tolerate behaviour that disrupts the enjoyment of public spaces by the community. We will continue to use our powers to ensure Swindon is a safer place for all."
The initiative signifies the determination from law enforcement to protect public spaces from persistent offenders.