Policing plans in place ahead of Yeovil protest

Policing plans are in place ahead of a planned protest in Yeovil tomorrow (Saturday 10 October).

The protest and march are due to take place in the town centre, starting at around 12pm.

There will be large police presence in the town during the day with officers there to enable peaceful protest to take place and to ensure the safety of those in attendance and the wider public.

Officers will not tolerate any criminality and will be following well-rehearsed plans.

As part of the police operation, a dispersal zone under section 34/35 of the Antisocial Behaviour and Policing Act 2014 will be in place from 9am until 6pm. This will cover the area in the map below.

Dispersal zones are regularly used by police across the country for a wide range of reasons, including to prevent disorder taking place during protests.

They give officers power to move on people who cause – or are likely to cause – harassment, alarm, or distress to others.

Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Joe Piscina said: “We know protests of this size are rare in Yeovil, but Avon and Somerset Police has significant experience in enabling events of this nature to take place safely.

“Officers will be following plans which are drawn up to ensure the safety of everyone, while minimising disruption to the wider community, but action will be taken wherever criminality is identified.

“Neighbour officers will be in the town centre throughout the day and will be happy to speak to anyone who has any concerns.”