GROUPS of youths congregating in Whitehaven town centre prompted police to issue a dispersal order at the weekend - with councillors labelling the issue 'embarrassing'.

Youth disorder and anti-social behaviour is becoming increasingly problematic in Whitehaven, with Bridges Retail Park becoming a hotspot for undesirable activity.

The 'dispersal order', which was issued by police on Saturday, allows the police to clear people out of the area. Anyone who fails to comply can be arrested.

The area surrounding the retail park has become an area of concern for law enforcement. In September 2023, officers visited the Whitehaven McDonald's branch to speak to staff about how they could deal with the issue.

Concerns have also been raised about behaviour of youths in the nearby Castle Park.

Mayor Chris Hayes, who is also a town centre resident, said: "The amount of trouble in the park recently has been embarrassing.

"I've seen a family leave the park because of the language being used by some teenagers.

"Unfortunately, I've had sticks and mud thrown at my window again. I've been told that I should close my curtains but I don't see why I should do that. Last year I had a window broken.

"I've heard from other people in town that eggs have been thrown at their windows. 

"It's good that the police have put a dispersal order in place but they'll be back soon. I don't know where parents think their kids are."

Chief superintendent Mick Bird, neighbourhood policing lead for Cumbria Constabulary said “Anti-social behaviour can have a detrimental impact on individuals and communities.

“Following recent additional investment into Neighbourhood Policing and an increase in the number of Community Beat Officers, the Constabulary has seen associated reductions in anti-social behaviour."

Tools being used by law enforcement include patrolling hot spots, issuing 'It's Your Choice' forms, and putting dispersal orders in place. 

Councillor Edwin Dinsdale added: "I haven't seen anything personally but that doesn't mean to say it isn't happening. 

"When residents are putting posts on social media about this type of ongoing issues I do sympathise with them.

"If people do see any type of antisocial behaviour occurring I'd urge them to call the police."