Police Bring in Unusual Dispersal Order at Polzeath Beach

A dispersal order is not something police reach for often. This week they have used one across the beach at Polzeath, after large groups of young people gathered in the evenings and left broken glass behind.

What the new powers mean

The Neighbourhood Policing Team in Polzeath introduced the order to control anti-social behaviour in the beach area. Officers say the main priority is keeping everyone safe.

The powers mean anyone causing or likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress can be asked to leave the area. Anyone who does not comply may be arrested or returned home. Police will also remove alcohol from any underage drinkers, and high visibility patrols by local officers are running at key times.

What triggered it

Parents are being urged to make sure their teenage children do not cause a nuisance for other residents. Large noisy groups had been gathering and leaving litter, including broken glass. Police say the recent hot weather has drawn more young people out in bigger numbers.

On Tuesday night (7 July) the Beach Ranger asked some youngsters from a large group to leave, and the mood turned hostile.

Inspector Adam Stonehill explained: “We are not here to spoil summer fun for young people and those who behave respectfully and just want to meet up with their mates are not a problem. However, the behaviour of a few is detrimental to all and we must consider the wellbeing of everyone in the locality, our local community and, in particular, those who reside and have businesses in Polzeath.

“We have been maintaining a high visibility presence in the town due to the known sudden increase of holidaymakers to the locality which happens annually. In direct correlation, there has been an increase in incidents of anti-social behaviour in the evenings. These can be directly linked to the teenagers gathering on the beach in the evening. On Tuesday night (7 July) the Beach Ranger asked some youngsters from a large group to leave the area and the atmosphere changed to reflect some hostility. This behaviour continued in an anti-social manner and it will not be tolerated.”

Where the order applies

The dispersal powers cover a zone from Greenaway Beach to Pentireglaze Haven, across to Robbie Love’s Campsite.

Anyone dispersed by police must leave and not return for a set period of no more than 48 hours. The order came into effect earlier today (8 July) and lasts until early on Friday 10 July. It may be extended if police feel it is needed to stop people in the area becoming victims of harassment, alarm or distress, or of crime and disorder.

The drinking ban already in place

A Public Spaces Protection Order also stops people drinking in certain public areas of Cornwall, Polzeath included. Alcohol can be confiscated, and breaking the PSPO can lead to a fixed penalty notice or a fine. The order came into effect in October 2023 and was granted by Cornwall Council.

Anti-social behaviour and incidents can be reported by calling 101 or through the Devon & Cornwall Police website.