Greater Manchester Police have implemented a Section 34 dispersal order at Audenshaw Reservoir in Tameside after receiving multiple reports of young people gathering and causing havoc. The order came into effect at around 8pm on Thursday, July 9, and will remain in place until 8.13pm on Friday, July 10.
Details of the Dispersal Order
The order grants police the authority to exclude individuals or groups from the specified area for up to 48 hours, aiming to minimise disruptive behaviour and potential crime. In this instance, the order is set for 24 hours. It follows reports of young people being aggressive towards reservoir workers, causing criminal damage, and engaging in antisocial behaviour.
Police Statement and Public Appeal
A statement from Greater Manchester Police Tameside posted on social media said: "We have implemented a Section 34 order around the Audenshaw Reservoir area due to several reports of anti-social behaviour. These reports relate to young people allegedly being aggressive towards workers at the reservoir, causing criminal damage, and acting in an anti-social manner."
The statement added: "A section 34 dispersal order allows officers to exclude a person, or people, from an area for up to 48 hours through written notice. The aim of the notice is to minimise behaviour contributing to, or likely to contribute to anti-social behaviour or crime or disorder in the area. This particular order is in place for 24 hours – ending at 8.13pm tomorrow (Friday 10 July)."
Previous Orders at the Reservoir
Similar dispersal orders have been issued at Audenshaw Reservoir in the past. In 2023, an order was put in place to prevent people from swimming in the water, and in 2020, one was implemented due to antisocial behaviour and reports of illegal gatherings.
Police Monitoring and Public Cooperation
Police have confirmed they have appropriate resources in the area and will be monitoring the reservoir over the weekend to ensure visitors behave safely and responsibly. Members of the public who experience further issues with antisocial behaviour are urged to contact police directly or anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers.
