Dispersal order imposed for anti-social behaviour — which included wildlife killings and verbal abuse — in Newark and Balderton

The decision to impose a three-year order, aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour in Newark and Balderton, was not taken lightly, say the police.

The Public Space Protection Order was imposed following reports of wildlife killings, verbal abuse, spitting and stone throwing.

Chief Inspector Heather Sutton said: “We welcome the order, which gives our officers greater powers to disperse people. It makes it an offence for people not to comply with an officer’s direction to leave the area, which they are able to do if they suspect an individual or a group are involved in or are likely to cause anti-social behaviour.

“Creating this permanent order is not a decision ourselves or our partners have taken lightly, and it comes after much discussion and using a number of other tools, such as dispersal orders, in the past.

“We absolutely continue to welcome people to Newark and encourage people to safely enjoy the activities and sights that the area has to offer. I want to make it absolutely clear that this will only be used against those engaged in anti-social behaviour.”

Newark Market Place has also been a hotspot for anti-social behaviour in the last year. During 2020, there was a marked increase in issues of young people congregating, climbing on market stalls and throwing projectiles.

Several young people are now being dealt with by the Nottinghamshire County Council youth offending team, which is working alongside Newark and Sherwood District Council and the police to explore more diversionary projects to try to reduce anti-social behaviour.

Following consultation, Newark and Sherwood District Council approved the Public Space Protection Order in Newark town centre, Balderton lakes, Coronation Park and the Lakeside shopping centre in Balderton.

District council leader David Lloyd said: “We understand that with lockdown restrictions lifting, alongside the warmer weather, there is a desire to get out and about with friends and that’s what we would encourage, but as long as it’s done in a safe and measured way and not causing anti-social behaviour.

“Some of the displays of behaviour that we have seen recently are absolutely unacceptable, not only to passers-by and buildings, but also to innocent wildlife.

“I am therefore delighted that we’re introducing this new order, which will allow officers to disperse those who are likely to engage in this sort of behaviour and prevent issues before they take place.

“I would also urge anyone experiencing or witnessing anti-social behaviour or any other undesirable activities to let us know. Any information that people give us will be taken in confidence and we are gathering all evidence with a view to taking legal action immediately.”

Report incidents to Newark Police on 101.