EXPECTED anti-social behaviour by young people prompted police to impose a dispersal order at Lakeside in West Thurrock today (Friday, 19 December), which will remain in force until Sunday.

Thurrock police made the decision to take pro-active action following information from local schools about a social media group chat intending to cause increased anti-social behaviour at Lakeside Shopping Centre.

The order is in place from 11am on Friday 19 December until 3am on Sunday 21 December.

The order has been put in place to prevent crime and disorder and prevent people attending the area being harassed, alarmed or distressed.

Neighbourhood Inspector Daniel Selby, who authorised the dispersal zone, said: "Our message is a simple one: if you come to Lakeside to behave in an antisocial manner, you will be asked to leave and failure to comply may result in further action.

"The purpose is to provide safety and security to members of the public in the Lakeside shopping centre whilst there is an expected increase in footfall due the time of year.

"My ask of parents is that, make sure you know where your children are and to make sure you are able to contact them."

The dispersal order gives officers powers to move anyone believed to be behaving anti-socially from the area.

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The dispersal order covers the area shown in the map.

There will be additional patrols from police and dedicated Lakeside security officers. Lakeside shopping centre does not allow face covering to be worn within and you will be asked to leave and parents may be contacted.