Police received reports of antisocial behaviour by youths gathering at Formby beach today as crowds enjoyed the mini heatwave.
This evening, officers have been given new powers to seize items and move people on from the area around the beach after youths are said to have gathered and acted in an "antisocial manner".
Merseyside Police have introduced a Dispersal Zone from 7pm which will run for 48 hours until 7pm on Thursday, April 1.
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The order will give police the power to seize any item, including vehicles, used for antisocial behaviour.
People who have been asked to leave an area could also be committing and offence and be arrested if they return.
The area of the Dispersal Zone includes Victoria Road, Larkhill Lane, border of Formby Pinewoods, St Luke’s Church Road Life Boat Road and the entirety of the beach bordered by the coastline, Liverpool 37.
Acting Inspector Stephen Morris said: “We introduce Dispersal Zones to help reduce anti-social behaviour, and will be out on high visibility patrols out from this evening enforcing it. We will take action against anyone seen acting anti-socially.
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“We are well aware of the significant impact this behaviour can have on the vast majority of people in area who are law-abiding members of the community looking to enjoy the beach and surrounding area.
“The dispersal zone gives us the powers we need to deal effectively with people and I would urge anyone in the area with any information about anti-social behaviour on the beach and dunes to contact us.”
Anyone who wishes to report anti-social or criminal behaviour can contact 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
