Dispersal orders in place at visitor hotspots around Wales
Dispersal orders were put in place at visitor hotspots around Wales as police pledged to clamp down on any anti-social behaviour.
The dispersal orders cover Cardiff Bay, Swansea, Ogmore-by-Sea, Barry Island and Aberaeron, giving police powers to break up crowds.
Action is also being taken in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, due to concerns about possible anti-social behaviour.
The order gives police and community support officers power to require people to leave a particular area and not return for a period of time
‘Harrassed’
It aims to prevent disorder and “members of the public in the locality being harassed, alarmed or distressed”
Failure to follow the order could leave people with a fine or up to three months in jail
From today, six people from six different households can meet outdoors under revised Covid rules.
Litter
The action comes after criticism of people gathering in large and leaving litter in Cardiff Bay and further afield.
A dispersal order has also been put in place in Aberaeron, Ceredigion, in case large crowds gather with people advised to “be sensible when meeting with friends or family this weekend”.
South Wales Police said it was the first time a dispersal order had been put in place at Ogmore-by-Sea due to recent anti-social behaviour.
“We are not there to monitor visitor numbers and prevent those visiting in a law-abiding manner from enjoying. We are there to ensure public safety,” said the force.
“We all have a responsibility to make sensible choices when we are out and about, maintaining social distancing and not putting ourselves and others at unnecessary risk.”
The dispersal order at SA1 Swansea comes as South Wales Police said it was aware of messages on social media about a gathering on a beach.
A dispersal order can be imposed on a specific area for up to 48 hours under section 35 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
Support our Nation today
For the price of a cup of coffee a month you can help us create an independent, not-for-profit, national news service for the people of Wales, by the people of Wales.
