Lancashire Police have issued dispersal orders in Blackpool and Blackburn today due to concerns about planned protests.
However, no dispersal orders have been issued in Preston as of yet.
The steps follow violent protests in other cities, including Manchester, Hartlepool, and Sunderland, in response to the horrific, fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport earlier this week.
Protests are anticipated in Blackburn town centre, Preston’s Flag Market, and outside Blackpool Town Hall this afternoon.
A Section 34 Disperal Order, which applies to a specified geographic area, authorises police to disperse crowds and direct them to depart.
In Blackpool, the order went into force from 8 a.m. today and will last until 10 p.m. tonight, with the possibility of an extension if necessary.
The order covers the promenade from Dickson Road to the junction with Devonshire Road, Whitegate Drive, and Waterloo Road.
It took effect in Blackburn at 8.40 a.m. today and includes portions of the town centre.
Police stated, “We know that the majority of those who want to attend desire to express their opposing opinions in a legal manner.
“However, we have received information indicating that certain people who intend to attend are out to cause trouble.
About The Author
