Police have launched a dispersal zone in the town centre.

Starting from Thursday, July 28, the zone will last for six months and gives police the power to break up groups of people acting anti-socially.

Between the hours of 9pm and 6am the police can return a young person home, if they are under the age of 16, they are on the streets without an adult and at risk of being a victim or committing antisocial behaviour.

Superintendent Steve Lawrie from Croydon police said: “Much progress has been made, but the Dispersal Order remains necessary to prevent and reduce criminal and anti social activity in the town centre so that people are safe to enjoy Croydon without being subjected to antisocial behaviour or criminality.”

Cabinet member for community safety, Councillor Simon Hoar, said: “The Croydon town centre Dispersal Order sends out a clear message that anti-social behaviour and criminality will not be tolerated.

“We want all those visiting central Croydon to be able to do so safely, and without fear of crime.”