Police to introduce dispersal zone in Glasgow city centre to target crime hotspots

A dispersal zone is to be introduced in Glasgow city centre to crack down on persistent anti-social behaviour.

Glasgow Central Station, St Enoch Square and Union Street have been identified by police as areas of particular concern for anti-social behaviour and crime that is having a “negative impact” on the city centre.

To capture the three problem areas, the dispersal zone will cover an area bounded by St Vincent Place, Glassford Street/Stockwell Street, to the far side of the riverbank, and York Street/West Campbell Street.

From Friday, March 20, the temporary zone will allow officers to direct groups of two people to leave the area if their behaviour is impacting the safety and well-being of others.

Those directed to leave will not be permitted to return to the area for 24 hours.

Superintendent Jackie Dunbar said: “This is a temporary measure being introduced alongside ongoing partnership activity to address behaviour that is having a negative impact on the city centre.

“We have listened to concerns from members of the public and local businesses about antisocial behaviour and disorder and this approach is about providing reassurance and promoting a safe and welcoming city centre.

“The vast majority of people who visit the city centre do so responsibly without causing any issues.

“This measure is about ensuring we can deal proportionately with those whose behaviour impacts others, and it will only be used when absolutely necessary.

“Our focus remains on working with partners and the community to reduce disruption and make sure the city centre is a place people can enjoy safely.”

The move comes after Glasgow City Council agreed to return to 24-hour CCTV camera staffing.

The local authority reduced the number of staff monitoring cameras in 2023 when it faced a budget shortfall of almost £50m.

Cameras are currently unmanned 12 hours a day, which local police said was “hampering” investigations.

Councillor Angus Millar, city convener for City Centre Recovery, added: “Glasgow city centre is a safe place to be and a fantastic place to live, work and visit.

“With footfall across the city centre rising, it is important that the Police are able to use the powers at their disposal to address localised and persistent issues of antisocial behaviour caused by a very small minority of people.

“For its part, the Council, in its Budget decisions this week, agreed additional investment to expand CCTV security monitoring in the city centre, supporting Council officers and police colleagues to work together to respond to issues that may arise.

“The city centre is a massive asset for Glasgow that draws in almost 70million visitors each year for food and drink, shopping, entertainment, business and culture.

“We are committed to working closely with partners across the public and private sector, including Police Scotland, to ensure it continues to be a welcoming and attractive place for everyone.”