A dispersal order has been granted in response to reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in an area of Stevenage.

The order, which gives police powers to disperse groups of two or more people who could cause harassment, alarm or distress to the public, will come into force in the Bedwell neighbourhood surrounding Bedwell shops from tomorrow (Thursday) for a period of six months.

If those dispersed return within 24 hours they can be arrested.

The order was applied for by Stevenage Borough Council and the police in response to reports from residents surrounding the shops in Bedwell Crescent about ongoing anti-social behaviour which has included verbal abuse, noise late at night and intimidation of shopkeepers and residents.

Pc Keith Kemble said: “The anti-social behaviour that has been displayed in Bedwell will not be tolerated. Local residents and shopkeepers have every right to live and work in peace in this area and not have their quality of life affected in this way. We will continue to work to identify those responsible and deal with them robustly.”

Councillor Richard Henry, executive member for safer and stronger communities at the council, said: “We work hard with the police and our other partners to make sure that Stevenage remains a safe town for all its residents and visitors. This order indicates that we take seriously all reports of anti-social behaviour, and we will take the necessary measures to minimise it.”