A councillor described an order that allows groups to be dispersed and for police to take home under 16s out on the street after 9pm as a “very positive approach”.

Cambs Times: Map of Waterlees, WisbechMap of Waterlees, Wisbech (Image: Archant)

Councillor Virginia Bucknor welcomed the five month long dispersal order for the Spinney in Waterlees, Wisbech, following an upsurge in anti social behaviour.

Cllr Bucknor said she had received many calls of complaint – four in one evening and all after 9.30pm.

“The one which got to me was a blind lady of 82,” she said.

In the three-month period from May 1, there were 33 incidents of anti-social behaviour, criminal damage or violence reported in the area.

Cambs Times: Map of Waterlees, WisbechMap of Waterlees, Wisbech (Image: Archant)

Cllr Bucknor said: “Waterlees residents have been subjected to appalling anti-social behaviour by a small minority of people over a sustained period.

“This dispersal order enables the police to take positive action, particularly towards those who have been coming into the area from elsewhere to target vulnerable residents.”

The dispersal order came into effect on Friday and will last until January 18, 2015.

Police officers and PCSOs now have the power to disperse groups of people – banning them from the area for up to 24 hours – and take under-16s home between the hours of 9pm and 6am.

Chief Inspector Mike Hills said: “There have been numerous complaints and incidents of street-based anti-social behaviour caused by large groups of youths who congregate in this area, many are drinking alcohol and being generally abusive towards members of the public and shop staff.

“Staff and shoppers have been alarmed and intimidated by these youths and have been subjected to abuse, noise and litter nuisance from some groups. There have also been a number of incidents of criminal damage and vandalism.

“We take anti-social behaviour very seriously as it can have a detrimental effect on individuals’ lives and impact the wider community.

“Anyone who sees someone acting in an anti-social manner should 101.”

• Have you been a victim of anti social behaviour? Do you support police response for Waterlees? Email: john.elworthy@archant.co.uk