Dispersal orders are being enforced across parts of Thanet and Whitstable to help deter antisocial behaviour during the warm weather weekend. Starting from 2pm on Friday 3 July 2026, police officers will have additional powers to ask anyone suspected of antisocial conduct in Broadstairs, Westwood Cross shopping centre, central Ramsgate, or Margate town centre to leave the area or face arrest if they refuse.
The orders also apply to individuals behaving antisocially on or near the beaches and at the railway stations in these locations. Similarly, a dispersal order covering Whitstable town centre, railway station, and seafront will come into effect from 4pm on the same day.
Anyone who returns to the restricted areas after being asked to leave risks being taken into custody. In addition, items used in an antisocial manner, such as loud music equipment, may be seized by the authorities.
Superintendent Pete Steenhuis from Kent Police commented: ‘Our coastal towns are wonderful places to enjoy the warm, sunny weather and we want to keep them that way. The overwhelming majority of people who choose to socialise in these areas do so respectfully and responsibly, and anyone who would seek to spoil it for others should expect to be dealt with swiftly and robustly.’
The dispersal orders are expected to remain in place for 48 hours to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all residents and visitors during the warm weekend.
Originally published by UKNIP.
