In a move to stamp out anti-social behaviour and crime in Islington, a second Dispersal Order has been set up in the borough. This is the second Order that has been created this month and is a sign of the council's ongoing commitment to making Islington safer. Together, Islington Council, the police and Homes for Islington have set up the Order, which creates a small Dispersal Zone that includes parts of Canonbury and St Peter's wards. <br><br>From 28 August, the police will have the power to disperse groups of more than two people and be able to tell those who live outside the area to leave and not to return for up to 24 hours if their behaviour is unacceptable. Anyone refusing to quit the area after being ordered to go, can be arrested and face imprisonment for up to three months as well as be fined up to £2,500. If any under 16s are asked to leave the area, they will be escorted home should they refuse. <br><br>The Dispersal Order has been set up to combat drug taking, joy riding, and reduce burglary in the area. <br><br>Cllr Marisha Ray, Executive Member for Performance and Community Safety, said "We believe that the Order will make a difference to the lives of long suffering residents and local businesses. <br><br>"Local people have told me about the harassment or intimidation where they live and no one should have to put up with that. We are acting decisively against crime and anti social behaviour right across Islington."<br><br>Sergeant Michael Cowie, said: "The Safer Neighbourhood Teams for both wards have now been in operation for six months. Over this period they have been working closely in partnership with Islington Council's Anti-Social Behaviour Team in order to tackle issues brought to their attention through public consultation.<br><br>"The Dispersal Zone will enable Safer Neighbourhoods to focus on the small minority who are engaging in anti-social behaviour. The Zone will be policed by Safer Neighbourhoods' officers, who will monitor its effect. It will only be used for those involved in anti-social behaviour. The police will not use the power to move along children who are playing within the areas. The Zone will offer those children and the community the opportunity to safely go about their daily business without feeling harassed or intimidated by the minority. Citizen focus is and remains the priority of St Peter's and Canonbury wards."<br><br>The new Dispersal Zone will run from Essex Road at the junction with St Paul's Road and as far south as Britannia Row. Parts of Prebend Street, Elizabeth Avenue and Halliford Street will be included. Both the Popham and the New River Green Estates are within the Dispersal Zone. <br><br>Doug Goldring, HFI's Director of Operations, said: "We're committed to fighting anti-social behaviour and to providing a safe environment for our community. This result shows that when residents, the police, HFI and the council get together we can have an effect on ASB."<br><br>The Dispersal Zone will be reviewed every two months to ensure it is effective. <br><br>Ends<br><br><br><br>
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009