Section 35 Dispersal Zone in Clapham announced for April 1st-3rd 2026 after recent anti-social behaviour

Following on from the recent reports of teenagers creating significant disorder and anti-social behaviour on the streets of Clapham, the Met Police has said it will be enforcing a Section …

Apr 1, 2026 - 15:48

Section 35 Dispersal Zone in Clapham announced for April 1st-3rd 2026 after recent anti-social behaviour

Following on from the recent reports of teenagers creating significant disorder and anti-social behaviour on the streets of Clapham, the Met Police has said it will be enforcing a Section 35 dispersal order in the town centre from 12:00pm on 1st April – 12:00pm on 3rd April, as illustrated in the map below:

They told Brixton Buzz:

Section 35 Dispersal Zone in Clapham

Following the recent disorder and anti social behaviour seen in Clapham town centre—where large groups of young people caused significant disruption. We have put enhanced policing measures in place. This follows similar incidents earlier in the week, and forms part of the Met’s robust and visible policing plan for the area.

To help prevent further disruption and keep the community safe, I have authorised a Section 35 dispersal order for the Clapham area from 12:00pm on 1st April – 12:00pm on 3rd April in the area on the enclosed map

This gives officers the power to direct anyone behaving in, or likely to engage in, anti social behaviour to leave the area. Increased patrols will continue throughout the duration of the order, in line with wider Met efforts to prevent further incidents and reassure businesses and the public.

We are working closely with local partners and retailers, and officers remain in the area reviewing CCTV and identifying those responsible for recent disorder.

Thank you to residents and businesses who have contacted us. Please continue to report ASB or suspicious activity to police via 101, online, or 999 in an emergency.

We remain committed to ensuring Clapham is a safe place for everyone who lives, works and visits here.

Local MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP commented on social media:

I’m very concerned by the recent scenes of unrest on Clapham High Street.

This intimidating behaviour causes havoc for local residents and businesses alike. It is inexcusable.

The police have informed me that we will see increased patrols in the area over the coming days.

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What is Section 35?

Section 35 of the Antisocial Behaviour, Police and Crime Act 2014 allows a police officer of at least the rank of Inspector to authorise a dispersal zone for up to 48 hours. Under the act, a person commits an offence if they fail to leave, or return having been directed to leave

There has been some controversy surrounding the use of these powers, particularly when applied to protests.