by Bill Heaney
The Glasgow city centre dispersal zone was established in March 2026 to support efforts to address anti-social behaviour and disorder.
The zone was initially approved for a period of three months until Saturday, 20 June 2026. Following a review of its use and impact, the dispersal zone will remain in place.
Between 20 May and 19 June, 2026, officers used their dispersal powers 363 times, with 14 people reported to the Procurator Fiscal after returning to the area in breach of dispersal directions.
Since its introduction on 20 March, 2026, dispersal powers have been used 1133 times, with 70 people reported to the Procurator Fiscal after returning to the area in breach of dispersal directions.
Of these,19 people have been arrested in connection with other offences, including assault, drug offences, breach of the peace, weapons offences, theft by shoplifting and two in connection with sexual assault.
Dispersal powers allow officers to direct groups of two or more people to leave the dispersal zone if their behaviour is impacting on the safety and well-being of others. Those directed to leave are not permitted to return for a period of 24 hours.
The dispersal zone covers an area bounded by St Vincent Place, Glassford Street/Stockwell Street, the far side of the riverbank and York Street/West Campbell Street.
Superintendent Jackie Dunbar said: “Over the past three months, dispersal powers have provided officers with an important tool to help address anti-social behaviour and disorder and support the safety and well-being of those living, working, and visiting Glasgow city centre.
“Throughout this period, we have worked closely with residents, businesses, and partners, and sought feedback on the dispersal zone and its impact, using that feedback to help shape our ongoing approach.
“The feedback we have received has been largely positive and, alongside operational data and our assessment of incidents in the area, has helped us inform our review of the dispersal zone and our next steps.
“While the dispersal zone was introduced as a temporary measure and was never intended to be a permanent solution, our review indicates that it continues to be an effective tool.
“As a result, the timeframe for the dispersal zone has been extended while we continue to work with partners to address the underlying causes of anti-social behaviour and disorder and develop longer-term solutions. Its use and impact will continue to be kept under review.
“Our focus remains on ensuring Glasgow city centre is a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”