The dispersal zone will be in place until tomorrow morning
Map showing the dispersal zone in effect from 7am today until 7am tomorrow.(Image: Avon and Somerset Police)
A dispersal zone has been authorised in Bristol city centre as a protest and counter-protest is planned later today (Sunday, September 7).
Avon and Somerset Police said the zone, which is already in effect, will last until tomorrow morning in order to enable peaceful protest.
An anti-migrant protest is due to begin on Bond Street at 12pm, with a counter-protest expected in the area prior.
These protests follow that of similar demonstrations within Broadmead two weeks ago as tensions mount over migrants being housed in hotels.
As a result, a dispersal zone has been implemented under Section 34/35 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
The dispersal zone was in effect from 7am this morning and will last 24 hours, until 7am tomorrow.
This gives police officers power to move people on if they are causing, or likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to others.
Chief Inspector Serena Serjeant, of the Bristol Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This operation will be similar to other successful policing operations in the city centre in recent weeks.
“Our aim is to enable peaceful protest to take place, but we will step in the event of any criminality.
“We’ve been in close contact with our partners and stakeholders and will continue to keep them updated. Anyone with any concerns is also welcome to speak to an officer.
“There could be disruption to the road network in the surrounding area while the protest takes place so we’d advise anyone planning to travel to plan their journeys in advance.”
The dispersal zone covers areas such as Broadmead, the Harbourside, Bristol Temple Meads and parts of Cliftonwood.