Police plan to disperse people from specific areas of York this Bank Holiday Weekend

Police are planning to disperse people from gathering in certain areas of York this weekend in a ‘pre-emptive’ bid to stop trouble.

Areas including the Knavesmire, Millennium Bridge area and Earswick will be covered, with “officers allowed to pre-emptively move people and groups on to prevent issues”.

It coincides with the final day of term for students in their final year of school.

Neighbourhood policing Inspector Lee Pointon said: “We understand people will want to relax and celebrate this weekend.

“And as long as they do that in safe, considerate and legal way, there are no issues whatsoever with that.

“Residents also want to enjoy their weekend without being affected by crime and antisocial behaviour.

“So the solution is dispersal powers, which give us the power to disperse groups and individuals from an area as a last resort.

“However, it goes without saying that this option won’t need to be used if people behave considerately and responsibly, and we hope everyone enjoys their weekend in this way.”

The dispersal orders are in place Friday and Saturday from midday until 2am.

If used, individuals will be prevented from returning to the area for up to 48 hours. Failing to comply could result in arrest.