An enhanced policing presence will be in operation in Dalton-in-Furness today (19 July) ahead of planned peaceful protests in the area.
Protests are set to take place on Ulverston Road, at the construction site for the South Lakes Islamic Centre.
Police have worked with the organisers to ensure that these protests are peaceful and cause minimal disruption to the local community.
To keep the risk of crime or disorder to a minimum, a series of orders will be in effect between 9:30am and 11pm today.
The orders give officers an enhanced ability to stop and search individuals and vehicles along with powers to require the removal of face coverings within the designated area. They will also have the power to require a person to leave the designated area if an officer suspects their presence is likely to contribute to crime or disorder.
Neighbourhood policing officers will also be in the area to provide reassurance and support to the local community.
Superintendent Paddy O’Hara said: “The dispersal order and the powers which have been authorised are in place to protect our communities.
“The rights for protest must be balanced with the rights of others, keeping the public safe, preventing crime and disorder, and seeking to minimise disruption.
“Public safety is our number one priority, and our officers are here to provide help, advice and reassurance.
“We ask that individuals involved in today’s protests act responsibly and refrain from engaging in crime and disorder.”
The area covered by the orders, under Section 34/35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and Section 60/60AA of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, is outlined in the accompanying image.