The controversial ‘section 30’ order for Fir Vale has been extended until November 2009.
The order gives the police powers to disperse people thought to be a nuisance. It also allows them to take under-16s home if they are out without a responsible adult.
Local councillors and residents had asked for the order to remain in place for its maximum 6 months but the council leadership did not agree: they said it was not a long-term solutions to crime and the underlying issues needed to be looked at. Council leader Paul Scriven promised a “top-level” meeting to discuss alternatives, pointing out that previous section 30 orders had not made much difference. The council only agreed to 4 months for the order originally.
However, the council has now agreed to extend the dispersal order until November 2009.