Beckenham Place Park: Dispersal Order to Tackle Disorder

April 15, 2026

Following recent disorder linked to large gatherings in and around Beckenham Place Park, a Section 35 Dispersal Order has been authorised by the Metropolitan Police to prevent further disruption and keep the community safe.

The order will be in place from 16:00hrs on Friday 17 April until 15:59hrs on Sunday 19 April 2026. It covers the boundary area between Lewisham and Bromley, including locations used for previous gatherings.

Officers will be carrying out patrols. Anyone causing or likely to cause disorder may be directed to leave the area.

Residents are asked to report any information about planned gatherings via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers, as early information helps police take preventative action.

A Section 35 Dispersal Order is a police power under the Anti‑Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 that allows officers to deal quickly with anti‑social behaviour or disorder in a specific area for a limited period (up to 48 hours). It is used where behaviour is causing, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to the public.

While the order is in place, police officers and PCSOs can:

Direct individuals to leave the designated area immediately.
Exclude them for up to 48 hours (or the remainder of the order).
Prevent re‑entry during the period of exclusion.
Seize items being used or likely to be used in anti‑social behaviour (where appropriate).
Take enforcement action if someone fails to comply with a lawful dispersal direction.

Failing to comply with a dispersal direction is a criminal offence and can result in arrest. It is not a blanket stop power and does not criminalise being in the area. It is a short‑term, preventative measure to restore order and protect the community.

Author

South London News Police & Courts Desk

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