Crawley police issue dispersal order for Tilgate area after reports of gatherings, street drinking and drug issues

Officers have joined forces with partner agencies to tackle a recent spate, according to police.

Chief Inspector Shane Baker said: “We are aware of anti-social behaviour being carried out by a small minority of people across the borough.

“This has included reports of groups gathering, drinking in the streets and drug issues.

“This behaviour is totally unacceptable and we will be working closely with partners to ensure the relevant actions are taken.”

Police added that a section 34 dispersal order has been issued from midday on Friday (June 5) which will cover:

• Tilgate Park area, inclusive of the surrounding woodlands and various placements along Tilgate Drive towards the A23 and K2 Leisure Centre.

• Tilgate Golf Course in its entirety.

• Gainsborough Road Playing Fields (aka Tilgate Playing Fields)

• Tilgate Parade.

• All streets bordered by Ashdown Drive, Titmus Drive, Winchester Road and Gainsborough Road.

The dispersal order is in place for an initial 48 hours and enables officers and PCSOs to direct a person who has committed, or is likely to commit, anti-social behaviour, crime or disorder to leave a specified area and not return for the specified time period.

CI Baker added: “Anti-social behaviour can have a significant impact on communities and we are committed to use the relevant policing powers to target this behaviour.

“You will see an increased policing presence in this location and our officers will be engaging with members of the public around the dispersal order and the current government guidance around the coronavirus. Officers will engage, explain and encourage and only if absolutely necessary, enforce.

“We want to reassure the public that solving these issues remains a priority for us and we will continue to monitor reports regarding this behaviour”.

“We would like to thank those members of the public who have reported matters of ASB to us and would urge anyone who is a witness or victim of ASB to report it to us either online or call 101.”

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