Dispersal order in town centre and Rothamsted Park

A Section 35 dispersal order is now in place in Harpenden town centre and Rothamsted Park ahead of Bonfire Night this evening to deter anti-social behaviour.

The order, which is in place from 1pm this afternoon (Wednesday 5 November) is in response to reports of young people throwing fireworks in the area last week on Halloween night (Friday 31 October). 

Under the order, which will be in place until 1pm on Friday (7 November), officers can direct anyone to leave the specified areas within the town immediately. Failing to do so is a criminal offence and could result in an arrest. Anyone aged under 16 can be taken home to their parents/guardians. 

Additional officers, both uniformed and plain-clothed, will be on duty, carrying out proactive patrols.

St Albans district Neighbourhood Inspector Paul Caro said: “Sadly, we received eight calls on Halloween night about anti-social behaviour in the town and Rothampsted Park – and six of those were about fireworks being thrown. This is dangerous and completely unacceptable. 

“The orders are being put in place to help protect residents and their families, from the small minority of people who use tonight as an excuse to commit crime and disorder.” 

He added: “We’ve been liaising with local schools, supermarkets and businesses to pass on advice in the run up to the day and are urging parents and guardians to ensure they know where their children are.”

If you witness any criminal activity, call 999 straight away.

Further advice and information is available on the Herts Police website - https://www.herts.police.uk/news/hertfordshire/news/2025/october-2025/have-a-spooktacular-halloween-and-bonfire-night/