Avon and Somerset Police have imposed a 48-hour dispersal order in Bath’s city centre following a surge of anti-social behaviour incidents earlier this week. The order, effective from Thursday, July 17 to Saturday, July 19, restricts troublemakers from entering the popular Kingsmead Square area.
Dispersal orders grant police the authority to bar individuals from designated locations for up to 48 hours in response to disruptive behaviour. Chief Inspector Scott Hill, Area Commander for Bath and North East Somerset, emphasized the importance of this action: “Due to further reports of anti-social behaviour in Kingsmead Square today, this new dispersal notice has been enacted to address the negative impact on our local community.”
He added, “We are collaborating closely with the Bath Business Improvement District to maintain a strong, visible presence in the area. The police will actively enforce the order to ensure residents, visitors, and businesses experience a safer and more pleasant environment.”
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This measure follows a public consultation conducted last year by Bath and North East Somerset Council, which revealed that one in ten participants regularly faced issues linked to anti-social drinking in the city centre. Concerns also included public urination and defecation.
An office worker expressed frustration: “These individuals frequently urinate and defecate next to or behind the building, leaving us to clean up the litter.” Another local shared their experience: “I work in town and am regularly abused by people drinking outside Sainsburys Local on Westgate Buildings. This behaviour must stop.”
Through these steps, authorities hope to curb disorderly conduct and improve the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit Bath.