More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A dispersal order will be in force across much of a town centre this weekend following reports of anti-social behaviour.
Kent Police says the measure will cover the most of the main shopping areas of Ashford as well as the town's Victoria Park.
The powers, given under section 34 of 2014 anti-social behaviour laws, allow senior officers to designate a specific location for dispersal measures for a maximum of 48 hours at a time.
Authorisation is given in advance when police have intelligence which suggests the powers to move people on will be required in a specific place at a specific time.
The town centre dispersal area is broadly defined as the area within the town's ring road and some outlying spots such as the Coachworks close to Ashford International.
Police say non-compliance with orders to disperse may lead to arrest, and they ask anyone who sees anti-social behaviour to report any incidents by calling 101.
