A section 35 dispersal order has been authorised for the Chafford Hundred and Lakeside areas of Thurrock to prevent Halloween related anti-social behaviour.

It covers the Chafford Hundred Housing estate and will be in place from 4pm on Wednesday, October 31 until 4pm on Thursday, November 1.

The order has been made under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and gives our officers the power to order people causing anti-social behaviour to leave the area.

Thurrock local policing team and partnership Inspector Paul Ballard said: “Last Halloween we saw a significant increase in anti-social behaviour in the West Thurrock area, which understandably caused distress to local residents, commuters and shoppers.

“By taking these measures, we aim to prevent and disrupt any individuals or groups who want to spoil the occasion and use Halloween as an excuse to cause disorder in the area.”

The boundaries of the dispersal order include: Arterial Road from the Treacle Mine roundabout to the lake at the Lakeside Shopping Centre, across the B186 junction and along West Thurrock Way to London Road. London Road to the junction with Devonshire Road, along Devonshire Road to the Hogg Lane roundabout and back to the Treacle Mine roundabout.

Please report any incidents of anti-social behaviour to police on 101. In an emergency always call 999.

For more advice visit www.essex.police.uk/advice/halloween/