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Police are set to implement a temporary dispersal zone in the heart of Glasgow as part of efforts to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. This zone, which will become active on 20 March, includes key locations such as Glasgow Central Station, St Enoch Square, and Union Street—areas recently flagged for concerns regarding public safety. Under this arrangement, police officers will have the authority to require groups of two or more individuals to leave the designated area if their actions are deemed harmful to the safety and well-being of others. Those asked to disperse will also be prohibited from returning for a 24-hour period.
Superintendent Jackie Dunbar emphasized that this measure is temporary and aimed at supporting broader partnership activities addressing negative behaviours in the city centre. She stated, “We have listened to concerns from members of the public and local businesses about antisocial behaviour and disorder and this approach is about providing reassurance and promoting a safe and welcoming city centre.” The zone itself will cover an area bordered by St Vincent Place, Glassford Street/Stockwell Street, the riverbank, and York Street/West Campbell Street.
City council convener for centre recovery, Angus Millar, highlighted the importance of keeping the city centre safe for residents, workers, and visitors alike. He noted that with increasing foot traffic in Glasgow’s city centre, it is crucial for police to have the power to address persistent anti-social activities perpetrated by a small number of individuals. Millar also mentioned upcoming enhancements to CCTV coverage funded through the council’s recent budget, stressing the city centre’s value as a major attraction that draws nearly 70 million visitors annually for its diverse offerings in food, shopping, entertainment, business, and culture.
Dispersal zone powers are not new in Scotland, having been introduced under the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Act 2004. They were created to solve the problem faced by police officers commonly described as “cat and mouse,” where troublemakers would have often moved on by the time police arrived. These powers provide law enforcement with an intermediate tool to deal with conduct that is antisocial without warranting more severe legal action. Non-compliance with a dispersal order constitutes a criminal offence, potentially leading to arrest. Reviews have found these zones effective in curbing anti-social behaviour quickly, sometimes improving situations after just a few weekends. However, some young people have expressed frustration over a lack of youth services and suitable social spaces. In recent times, dispersal powers have been used alongside Firework Control Zones in Edinburgh, particularly during repeated disturbances occurring around Bonfire Night
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