Rowdy Drinkers to be Dispersed at Student Hotspot

Students will have to take care not to fall afoul of a new dispersal order, announced by Hampshire Constabulary and Southampton City Council, covering the popular Bedford Place area.

Southampton students’ previously found drunken antics have been reported to the University so this latest measure continues the police crackdown against booze related misbehaviour.

Local residents and businesses had been complaining of alcohol-fuelled antisocial activity around the student drinking spot. London Road is also covered by the order.

From today (1st February) until the end of July, police and PCSOs will have the power to ask groups of two or more people who have caused alarm or distress to leave the area. Failure to comply could result in a fine of up to £2,500 and even imprisonment for three months.

Sector Inspector Ryan Bartlett commented:

This area of the city is a popular location for the city’s night-time economy and attracts a significant number of people throughout the week and at weekends. Disappointingly a minority few of these people fail to conduct themselves properly which impacts on others.

Establishments in the affected area include Vodka Revs, Junk and the ever popular Orange Rooms. Police data shows the area does have a high level of reported antisocial crime.

We at The Tab have been known to enjoy a pint or two of an evening but of course would never condone disturbing local residents.