A dispersal order will be in place in Gillingham in order to tackle any antisocial behaviour which may arise during a football match. Enforcement will start at 11am on Saturday 27 April 2024 and will be in place until 7pm.
This is to prevent any antisocial behaviour which might arise due to the higher than expected number of shoppers and fans in the area due to the Gillingham FC and Doncaster United clash.
Where is the dispersal area?
The order will cover Priestfield Stadium and surrounding roads including Jeffery Street, Railway Street, Woodlands Road, Ito Way, Sturdee Avenue, Barnsole Road, Gillingham Road and Canterbury Street.
The dispersal order gives police additional powers to move on anyone causing a nuisance and, if necessary, arrest those who return to the area once dispersed.
Inspector Mick Hayes, from Medway’s Community Safety Unit said:
‘This order will be in place as a preventative measure in order to ensure those attending the football match can enjoy their day out without any fear of antisocial behaviour occurring.
‘Should anyone be seen committing antisocial behaviour they will be dealt with robustly and will be removed from the area.
‘We want to ensure those attending the match can do so safely and have a positive experience and we will not tolerate any intimidating or nuisance behaviour.’
Anybody wanting to report instances of anti-social behaviour should do so online via the Kent Police website. If a crime is in progress, please don’t hesitate to call 999.