A DISPERSAL zone is to remain in place for another six months to help police deal with groups of youths.

Police and Bromley Council both agreed the dispersal area enclosed by Bromley Common, Southlands Road, Southborough Road, Southborough Lane, Magpie Hall Lane and Parkfield Way should stay until June 17.

It gives police the power to remove groups of youths congregating and intimidating members of the public from the zone.

A dispersal zone was used to cover the area from June 4 to December 3.

Bromley Common and Keston councillor Alexa Michael said: "It is unfortunate we have to have dispersal zones.

"But we have had problems with crowds of youths hanging around.

"It does give the police the right to split up groups and move them on if they think they are likely to cause anti-social behaviour and commit crimes."

She added: "A lot of people find it intimidating.

"It is an extra weapon the police have that they can move groups on if they see fit.

"I think it points to the fact the dispersal zone is working that the police want it as an ongoing measure.

"If trouble arises, they have the means to deal with it."

Betty Doughty, the chairman of the Turpington Lane Residents' Association, supports the dispersal zone.

The 78-year-old, who has lived in Turpington Lane all her life, said: "It has made a big difference to our community centre, for the simple reason we don't get a gathering of young people there any more.

"We haven't had any problems lately."

Sergeant John Feeney, the head of the Bromley Common and Keston Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "There has been positive feedback and comments from residents on the extra police patrols in the area and the reduction of problems.

"We will be continuing our patrols to keep this area safe."

3:52pm Wednesday 19th December 2007

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