Bid to cut anti-social behaviour in Northampton

A dispersal order designed to combat anti-social behaviour in the Spring Boroughs area of Northampton will come into force on Wednesday.

The six-month order is being brought in after local people told police of concerns about verbal abuse and begging by groups of young people.

The order means anyone who returns to the area after being moved on within 24 hours faces arrest.

Police will have increased powers to target anti-social behaviour.

The order will cover the area bordered by Grafton Street, Broad Street, Horse Market, Black Lion Hill and St Andrews Road.

It gives increased powers to police officers and police community support officers (PCSOs).

PCSO Nikki Brooks from the Castle Safer Community Team, said: "We want to send out a clear message that anti-social behaviour in Spring Boroughs will not be tolerated."