Police have again been given extra powers in Barry town centre until Saturday following further anti-social behaviour and vandalism, with incidents particularly focused around King Square, next to Holton Road.
Several incidents have occurred in recent weeks, even leading to traders trying to intervene. On Thursday night, November 5, the town hall had to be closed following anti-social behaviour, meaning the town council could not accept in-person visits from the public. Barry town council has also reported to police that staff have been abused.
Dispersal order in force
A dispersal order giving police extra powers in the area came into force on Thursday afternoon and will remain in place until Saturday. It gives officers the power to direct individuals or groups to leave the designated area for up to 48 hours if their behaviour has contributed, or is likely to contribute, to disorder or cause harassment, alarm or distress to members of the public.
In recent weeks, three separate dispersal orders have been granted in the same area following reports of fighting, bricks being thrown, shutters kicked and businesses shoplifted.
Traders describe incidents
Marc Cheshire, who has run the Ceasars Coffee Lounge on King Square for 17 years, said: "I have just watched them throwing things at people walking past."
He added: "Last week some of them called me 'ugly' and 'nonce'. It was just ridiculous. One of the kids was trying to steal a bike from another kid so I went to have a chat with them."
Rhys Lewis, supervisor at Cex computer and entertainment shop, said: "There's a bunch of kids in the square making a lot of noise. It's anti-social behaviour and I think with the police being more of a presence it is more controlled."
Police and council response
South Wales Police and council staff are working together to manage the situation and address the ongoing concerns. Officers have been speaking to the parents of 40 young people causing problems in the area.
A spokesperson from Vale of Glamorgan Council added: "Please check where your young people are and remind them not to engage in any form of behaviour that may cause distress or damage."
