Police are introducing a dispersal zone in West Kirby following an increase in criminal and anti-social behaviour by large groups of youths.
West Kirby Today has been sent footage which appears to show one of the incidents officers are investigating, which took place on Thursday.
In it, the driver of a Volkswagen Golf is forced to stop on Banks Road, and gets out to remonstrate with a group of young people. One of them then jumps on to the bonnet and windscreen of the car.
The footage shows some of the young people laughing, but others are shocked, with one of them heard saying “that was tight”, and another commenting “that was out of order”.
On Tuesday, following reports of disorder in Ashton Park, officers arrested a 17-year-old boy, who has since been released under under investigation.
The dispersal zone runs from 3pm today until 2.59pm on Sunday 9 April, with patrols stepped up and police horses on hand.
The dispersal zone covers Lingdale Road, Bridge Road, Bridge Court, South Road, Albert Road and South Parade. It also encompasses West Kirby Concourse, West Kirby railway station, Ashton Park and Banks Road.
Community Chief Inspector Tom Welch said: “I have proactively put this dispersal in place in response to reports involving anti-social behaviour and criminality in the area.
“This includes youths riding bikes, behaving in an anti-social manner, damaging property and committing violent offences. This is having a significant impact on businesses, residents and people visiting West Kirby or shopping in the town due to their intimidating unacceptable behaviours.
“Patrols have been increased in the area to deal with any issues, and this order is an additional measure to prevent any criminality from taking place.
“This dispersal zone is to give officers in the area extra powers to approach people they suspect may be there to commit anti-social behaviour or other crimes.
“This order is also to ensure residents and businesses are not subjected to any such behaviour, and I would ask people to continue reporting any concerns and we will take action.
“We will be in the area to provide reassurance to those people who simply want to shop or visit our neighbourhood without having to be confronted with this behaviour.
“I would urge parents and guardians to know where young people in your care are, to further assist us in dealing with those who cause trouble.
“If you witness any anti-social behaviour or have any information about such incidents, please contact or speak to our officers and we will take action.”
