POLICE have been given extra powers to disperse people from Colchester town centre due to concerns over groups of yobs planning to fight in Castle Park.
Essex Police have implemented a 48-hour dispersal order covering the town centre in response to reports of antisocial behaviour in the area.
On Wednesday there were reports of groups of people congregating around the Castle Park area who may have been preparing for a fight.
The suspects dispersed from the area but police say the new powers are needed to prevent crime and disorder, and to stop those living nearby from being harassed, alarmed or distressed.
The order, which covers the immediate town centre and open areas bounded by Lexden Road, Southway, Magdalen Street, Brook Street, East Street, Ipswich Road, Cowdray Avenue, Colne Bank Avenue and Cymbeline Way, means police can order residents to leave the area.
Anyone who refuses to comply can be arrested.
It will remain in place until 5pm today.
Inspector Chris Coyles, of Colchester police, said: “These orders are here to keep everyone safe and to ensure that the local community can continue their daily lives without fear of anti-social behaviour or disorder.
“My officers will have extra powers until 5pm on Friday to prevent any disturbances taking place.
“We’re here to keep you safe, so don’t be alarmed if you see a larger police presence in the next few days.
“If you have any concerns about antisocial behaviour in your local area, you can submit a report through our website or call us on 101.
“Always call 999 in an emergency.”
Ward councillor Simon Crow (Con, Castle) said: “It’s a shame the police felt it was necessary to make this order but we want to ensure everybody living in and visiting Colchester’s town can do so safely and enjoyably.”
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Colchester Council has also been forced to close a set of toilets in Castle Park after they were vandalised.
Both of the toilets near Hollytrees Museum have been closed for repairs after being targeted on Tuesday.
A spokesman for the council said: “We’ll do this as quickly as possible and let you know when they reopen.
“If you have any info on this crime, please send it to Essex Police Colchester.”
Alternative public toilets are available in Castle Park.
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