Police Implement Dispersal Order Ahead of Portswood Protest

Police have issued a dispersal order covering parts of Portswood ahead of a regular protest taking place this evening (Friday 14 November). Officers say the order is designed to help them manage any anti-social behaviour that may arise during the demonstration.

The Section 34 order, which runs from 4pm to 9pm, gives police the power to instruct anyone acting anti-socially to leave the designated area and not return. Those who ignore the order risk being arrested.

The dispersal zone includes Highfield Lane, Shaftesbury Avenue, Portswood High Street, and extends down to Thomas Lewis Way.

A spokesperson for the force said officers remain committed to facilitating lawful protest but will intervene when behaviour crosses into unlawful or anti-social activity.

“Our priority at gatherings remains public safety, and we continue to liaise with organisers, along with the community and our local partner organisations,” they added.

A map of the dispersal zone has been released to help residents and protesters understand the boundaries of the order.