Dispersal Order Issued Ahead of Planned Protest in Portswood

A dispersal order has been authorised by the local policing team ahead of a planned protest in Portswood tonight (21 November). The order is intended to support police operations during the event and enable officers to respond to any anti-social or unlawful behaviour.

The powers allow officers to direct individuals acting unlawfully—or outside the boundaries of a lawful protest—to leave the designated area and not return for the duration of the order. Anyone who ignores such a direction and re-enters the zone may face arrest.

The dispersal zone will be active from 4pm to 9pm and covers the same area as the order implemented last week. This includes Highfield Lane, Shaftesbury Avenue, Portswood High Street, and extends down to Thomas Lewis Way.

Police reported that during last Friday’s deployment, officers did not need to issue any dispersal directions.

“Our priority when policing gatherings such as this is public safety,” the force said, adding that officers are continuing to liaise with protest organisers, local residents, and partner organisations.