Police have introduced a 48-hour dispersal order covering Melksham town centre and Queensway following four reports of youth-related violence in quick succession.
Wiltshire Police said officers had received four reports of youth-related violence in Melksham town centre in quick succession on Saturday 24th October and believed the incidents were likely to continue over the weekend.
A spokesperson said, “As a result a Section 35 Dispersal Order has been granted for the areas of Melksham Town Centre and Queensway. This dispersal order is in place for 48 hours and will cease at 1445hrs on Monday 26th October 2026.”
The order gives officers the power to temporarily exclude anyone suspected of disorder or antisocial behaviour from the designated area. Anyone who returns after being ordered to leave can be arrested for breaching the order.
The spokesperson added, “Any person who we are required to engage with in relation to this order, will receive a map of the dispersal area prior to being ordered out of the area.”
A separate Section 35 dispersal order was introduced on 8th October, covering the town centre and King George V Park, following reports of antisocial behaviour.
At the time, police said they had received numerous reports of youth antisocial behaviour in and around the town centre, including alcohol use, entering derelict buildings and public defecation. The order gave officers the power to exclude people suspected of antisocial behaviour or disorder from the designated area.
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