Calls to Gwent Police relating to anti-social behaviour in Rogerstone have reduced by 52% since two dispersal orders were introduced in June 2010.
The dispersal orders have now been running for six months and cover the areas of Afon Village and Thornbury Park.
During this time police received 110 calls reporting anti-social behaviour in these areas. In the same period in the previous year (8th June – 7th December 2009) police received 231 calls – that’s 121 calls less since the orders were introduced!
The Safer Newport Partnership authorised the implementation of the two dispersal orders, after local residents raised anti-social behaviour as a PACT priority for Rogerstone.
Dispersal orders give police officers and PCSO’s the power to direct any person, or vehicle, to leave a specified area. Anyone who refuses to leave, or returns to the area within 24 hours, when ordered to do so can be arrested under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003.
Peter Thomas, Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant for Rogerstone said:
“Although Rogerstone is a safe place to live, often the sight of groups of people congregating can undermine those feelings of safety and affect the quality of life of local residents – something that we simply will not tolerate.
“We are extremely happy with the results of these dispersal orders but we will not become complacent. We will continue to monitor the area on a regular basis and will act on feedback the public give us not only in Rogerstone but throughout Newport.
“We would urge residents to keep in touch and report any incidents of anti-social behaviour by calling 101 from a landline or mobile phone”.
Councillor William J Routley, cabinet member for the environment and community safety added:
“It is pleasing to learn of the success of these orders and I hope it has brought some peace of mind to those residents who were victims of anti-social behaviour.
“However, it is important that the situation continues to be monitored and, like Sergeant Thomas, I would urge people to report incidents of anti-social behaviour.
“As a council, we also feel it is important to engage with young people who may be involved in this sort of behaviour to try and find a long-term solution to the problem.”
