00:00Liverpool Council is considering introducing a public space protection order after a sustained
00:06rise in youth antisocial behaviour across the city centre since 2024.
00:11Officers say groups of up to 150 young people, many travelling from outside the area, have
00:17been involved in fights, thefts and assaults, sometimes using weapons such as poles, knives
00:23and machetes.
00:24Social media platforms, including TikTok and Snapchat, are being used to record and share
00:29incidents, helping mobilise further groups.
00:32Merseyside Police report repeated attacks on members of the public, local businesses and
00:37security staff, with some individuals concealing their faces.
00:42Dispersal notices have been issued to 138 people and parents notified to improve awareness.
00:49Shop selling vapes have become hotspots for gatherings.
00:52Liverpool One, St John's Shopping Centre and other city centre locations have registered
00:57concerns about intimidation and safety.
01:00The proposed PSPO would restrict large gatherings and face coverings, except for religious or
01:06cultural reasons.
01:08Officers continue to work with trading standards and multi-agency teams to reduce underage access
01:14to vapes and limit antisocial behaviour.
01:16A decision from council officials is expected this week.
01:20Authorities say ongoing monitoring, intelligence gathering and enforcement will continue to ensure
01:25ensure that youth gatherings are controlled.
01:27Control.
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