RESIDENTS have backed measures to carry on with a dispersal zone in town centres in Harrow and Wealdstone.

Harrow Council and the police signed new partnership orders that will allow special dispersal zones in the areas for a further six months.

The scheme was set up in 2009 and allows police to split up and move on groups of people suspected of anti-social behaviour.

The orders, which extend the powers until the end of September were co-signed by the Council's Chief Executive, Michael Lockwood, and Harrow Borough's Deputy Commander, Police Superintendent, Neil Vyse.

Councillor Phillip O’Dell, the council's portfolio holder for environment and community safety, said: “These zones are improving how safe residents and businesses feel in their neighbourhoods.

"They allow the police to take action to prevent a minority of youths from gathering in groups and causing distress to others.

“Evidence shows that they are bearing down on anti-social behaviour and encouraging more residents to use Wealdstone and Harrow town centre as a result.

“By working in partnership with the police, we are committed to improving safety for everyone in the area and keeping Harrow one of safest boroughs in London.”

The order means PCSOs and PCs can tell groups of two or more people to leave the area or a specific part of the area, and they can take under 16s to their home address if they are not with a parent or responsible adult.

Safer Neighbourhoods chief inspector Nick Davies said: "The results of the consultation show overwhelming support from local residents, local businesses and local ward panels for the renewal of the dispersal zones in both Harrow town centre and Wealdstone.

"Dispersal Zones are an extremely effective tool which help our officers to reduce violence, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

"This is particularly relevant during the summer months when, traditionally we see a rise in reports of these types of crime."