Officers out in force to keep city safe for residents and racegoers

Officers will be out in force over the next few days to keep our city safe for residents and racegoers.

Over the next few days you’ll see an increase in officers in the city as the first races of the season begins.

There will also be a dispersal order in place during this time to help support the operation and prevent anti-social behaviour.

The dispersal order will allow officers to ban anyone from the town for up to 48 hours to prevent disorder.

It has been imposed under Section 34 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, making it an offence for anyone to return to a specific area for up to 48 hours.

The area covered by the order is highlighted in the mapped area. The map is provided to anyone issued with a direction to leave.

The powers are in place from 9am Wednesday to 4am on Thursday, then 9am on Thursday to 4am on Friday, and 9am Friday to 8am Saturday.

Inspector James Wilson said:

“The races are a big draw to the city centre and we want everyone to enjoy their time here, whether that’s as a racegoer, resident or business.

“That’s why we’ve an increased presence in the area and have put this order in place. I want to be clear that issuing dispersal orders is not officers ‘taking this behaviour lightly’, in fact, these orders allow us to take robust action.

“These orders are additional tactical option that allow us to deal with anti-social behaviour head on.

“A number of officers will be out in key areas, patrolling around the city and I would urge anyone with any concerns to speak to an officer.

“I would urge residents and businesses to continue to report any issues with anti-social behaviour so that we can address these issues.”

Anyone with information about anti-social behaviour in their area is urged to contact Cheshire Police via the Cheshire Police website or call 101.