**Police Enforce Dispersal Order Amid Rising Anti-Social Behaviour on Swansea Street**
Authorities in Swansea have granted police officers enhanced powers to address a surge of anti-social behaviour centred around Griffith John Street, situated just north of the city’s train station. This decision comes after weeks of mounting incidents that have left local residents increasingly distressed and anxious about safety in their own neighbourhood.
South Wales Police confirmed that they have utilised section 35 dispersal powers, which allow officers to move individuals away from the area if they suspect those individuals are likely to contribute to harassment, alarm, or distress to others. This action has been described as a direct response to what police have called a “notable problem” with anti-social conduct along Griffith John Street recently, reinforcing the seriousness of the situation.
Inspector Andrew Hedley of South Wales Police made clear the force’s commitment to protecting residents, stating, “We have a zero-tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour anywhere in the force area. But over the last couple of weeks, this has become a notable problem in this area in particular.” Such a declaration from local police underscores both the frequency and intensity of the issues facing the community.
According to Inspector Hedley, much of the disruption has been attributed to individuals who do not reside within Griffith John Street itself. “This is causing undue distress to the many law-abiding residents living within the area,” he said. “Our officers will attend the area and will act swiftly to disrupt any form of anti-social behaviour that they see.” Increased patrols are now in operation, hoping to reassure those affected and deter further incidents.
Community members have long reported feeling vulnerable and overwhelmed by behaviour ranging from loud public disturbances and loitering to instances of suspected drug use and intimidation. The flats in Griffith John Street have previously been highlighted as problem spots, most notably in a 2022 Wales Online report that detailed challenging living conditions, including infestations of vermin and frequent intrusions by drug users.
Such conditions have not only endangered residents’ sense of security but have contributed to strained relations between long-term locals and transient visitors. Additionally, many feel their concerns have gone unheard, making the current actions by South Wales Police a welcome—if overdue—intervention for some.
Police have urged anyone witnessing or experiencing anti-social behaviour to contact them via the non-emergency 101 line, emphasising the importance of reporting to help build a clearer picture of problematic hotspots. In situations regarded as emergencies, residents are reminded to dial 999 for immediate assistance. Increased police presence in the coming days is intended not just to enforce the dispersal order but to encourage more community engagement and foster a safer environment.
While dispersal orders are typically temporary measures, both local authorities and residents alike will be monitoring their effectiveness closely. The situation in Griffith John Street serves as a stark reminder of broader patterns of urban anti-social behaviour, social isolation, and the strain placed on public services and community cohesion.
Looking ahead, many hope that this surge in enforcement will be paired with longer-term solutions to address the root causes of disorder on the city’s streets. For now, the spotlight remains on Griffith John Street, as both police and the community work to restore order and rebuild trust in the area’s future.