POLICE in Wirral are continuing their crackdown on anti-social behaviour by introducing two new temporary dispersal zones in New Brighton this weekend.

The zones will be in operation from 6pm tonight, Friday, February 20 until 5pm on Sunday, February 22.

The first zone will cover Kings Parade, Wellington Road, Marine Park and the surrounding area.

The second zone will cover Tower Grounds, Vaughan Road, Victoria Road, Victoria Parade and the surrounding area.

The zones are being brought in under Section 34 of the new Anti-Social Behaviour legislation which gives police officers and Police Community Support Traffic Officers powers to direct people causing anti-social behaviour to leave the area.  If those people return to the area within 48 hours they can be arrested.

Wirral Globe:
The first zone will cover Kings Parade, Wellington Road, Marine Park and the surrounding area. The second zone will cover Tower Grounds, Vaughan Road, Victoria Road, Victoria Parade and the surrounding area.

Acting Neighbourhood Inspector for Wallasey, Stuart McIver, said: "We have had a number of reports from the community in New Brighton that anti-social behaviour has increased during half term week and the introduction of these zones demonstrates that we are listening to and responding to their concerns.

"The zones are not about bothering people, young or old, who are going about their legitimate daily business.  However, we will be targeting people who are intent on causing anti-social behaviour or criminal damage, especially if they are gathering in large groups.

"The zones give officers the powers they need to deal effectively with people behaving anti-socially and I would urge anyone in New Brighton who is suffering from anti-social behaviour to contact us so that we can take action."

People can call officers on the 101 number or dial 999 if there is a danger to life or a crime is in progress.