Section 35 Dispersal Order Authorised Beckenham Place Park 17-19APR26

Section 35 Dispersal Order Authorised Beckenham Place Park 17-19APR26

Good morning,

Following recent disorder linked to large gatherings in and around Beckenham Place Park, I have authorised a Section 35 Dispersal Order to prevent further disruption and keep the community safe.

The order will be in place from 16:00hrs on Friday 17 April until 15:59hrs on Sunday 19 April 2026, covering the boundary area between Lewisham and Bromley, including locations used for previous gatherings.

Officers will be carrying out patrols, and anyone causing or likely to cause disorder may be directed to leave the area. We ask residents to report any information about planned gatherings via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers, as early information helps us take preventative action.

***A Section 35 Dispersal Order is a police power under the Anti‑Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 that allows officers to deal quickly with anti‑social behaviour or disorder in a specific area for a limited period (up to 48 hours). It is used where behaviour is causing, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to the public.***

While the order is in place, police officers and PCSOs can:

Direct individuals to leave the designated area immediately

Exclude them for up to 48 hours (or the remainder of the order)

Prevent re‑entry during the period of exclusion

Seize items being used or likely to be used in anti‑social behaviour (where appropriate)

Take enforcement action if someone fails to comply with a lawful dispersal direction

Failing to comply with a dispersal direction is a criminal offence and can result in arrest.

It is not a blanket stop power

It does not criminalise being in the area

It is a short‑term, preventative measure to restore order and protect the community

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Message Sent By
Gavin Durnell
(Police, Inspector, Lewisham)